NFI’s UK electric vehicle partnership with BYD achieves major milestone with delivery of its 500th electric bus and is well positioned for the future with an additional 500 EV buses on order across the UK

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, May 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (TSX: NFI, OTC: NFYEF) NFI Group Inc. (“NFI” or the “Company”), a leading independent bus and coach manufacturer and a leader in electric mass mobility solutions, today announced that the BYD UK and Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) electric vehicle partnership, the UK’s leading electric bus producer, has delivered its 500th electric bus. This major milestone comes less than five years after rolling out its first battery-electric bus and will see the 500th vehicle, a zero-emission Enviro400 double deck bus, join the fleet of the partnership’s original customer, Go-Ahead London.

As the UK’s transition to zero-emission transport continues to accelerate, the BYD ADL partnership has already taken firm orders for the next 500 electric buses for public transit operators. In a testament to the UK’s leadership in zero-emission vehicle adoption, these 500 new vehicles are expected to be delivered over the next 12 months and will bring the partnership’s total deliveries to over 1,000 units.

BYD is a global leader in batteries, energy management and electric mobility, while ADL is a subsidiary of leading independent global bus manufacturer NFI. BYD and ADL combined their strengths in October 2015 to offer reliable and cost-effective electric buses for operators in the UK, Ireland and New Zealand. The partnership has been a tremendous success, and it continues to strengthen with plans for complete UK builds at ADL’s facilities to start later in 2021.

Go-Ahead London has worked closely with the BYD ADL partnership since its inception, becoming its launch customer in 2016 and continuing to support product development with its operational experience. The very first BYD ADL electric bus – a BYD ADL Enviro200EV single decker – joined the handover of the 500th as the manufacturers paid tribute to Go-Ahead London’s crucial role in the deployment of electric buses in the UK. Go-Ahead is now the country’s biggest operator of electric buses, having received nearly half of the 500 BYD ADL electric buses delivered so far.

Paul Soubry, President & Chief Executive Officer of NFI, said: “The milestone of 500 electric buses delivered is an exciting one, for NFI, for the BYD ADL partnership, and for the UK. It’s very fitting that our 500th bus be delivered to Go-Ahead, as they are a driving force in the UK’s adoption of zero-emission transit and have been supporting our partnership since the beginning. The world of transportation is changing, and NFI continues to lead the evolution to electrification in the UK and around the world through a focus on delivering the highest quality products and working with industry leading partners.”

NFI is leading the global electrification of mass mobility, operating in more than 80 cities in four countries that have completed over 40 million electric service miles. NFI also operates the Vehicle Innovation Center, the first and only innovation lab of its kind dedicated to advancing bus and motor coach technology and providing essential workforce development through electric bus training, now available online. NFI is testing automated vehicle technology and remains committed to the development of technology standards that deliver safe, clean, sustainable, connected mobility options to communities. In addition, NFI’s Infrastructure Solutions team, which provides safe and reliable infrastructure services for sustainable mobility projects, has installed over 200 chargers to date.

About NFI

Leveraging 450 years of combined experience, NFI is leading the electrification of mass mobility around the world. With zero-emission buses and coaches, infrastructure, and technology, NFI meets today’s urban demands for scalable smart mobility solutions. Together, NFI is enabling more livable cities through connected, clean, and sustainable transportation.

With 8,000 team members in ten countries, NFI is a leading global bus manufacturer of mass mobility solutions under the brands New Flyer® (heavy-duty transit buses), MCI® (motor coaches), Alexander Dennis Limited (single and double-deck buses), Plaxton (motor coaches), ARBOC® (low-floor cutaway and medium-duty buses), and NFI Parts™. NFI currently offers the widest range of sustainable drive systems available, including zero-emission electric (trolley, battery, and fuel cell), natural gas, electric hybrid, and clean diesel. In total, NFI supports its installed base of over 105,000 buses and coaches around the world. NFI common shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol NFI. News and information is available at www.nfigroup.com, www.newflyer.com, www.mcicoach.com, www.arbocsv.com, www.alexander-dennis.com, and www.nfi.parts.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Lindy Norris
P: 320.406.3386
[email protected]

For investor inquiries, please contact:
Stephen King
P: 204.224.6382
[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/15fe7f2f-9699-482d-a971-302d92122558



Ocuphire to Host Key Opinion Leader Event on Nyxol® as a Potential New Treatment Option for Reversing Pharmacologically Induced Mydriasis

Highlights of Recent Positive Data from Nyxol’s Phase 3 Registration Trial

Roundtable Discussion by 3 KOLs with Unique Perspectives and Distinct Patient Populations

Webinar on Wednesday, May 26

th

@ 1:00 pm EDT

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., May 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ocuphire Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: OCUP), a clinical-stage ophthalmic biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing therapies for the treatment of several eye disorders, today announced that it will host a key opinion leader (KOL) event on Nyxol, its late-stage product candidate under development as a potential new treatment option for reversing pharmacologically induced mydriasis (dilation of pupil for eye exams).

The Webinar will feature a roundtable discussion among three KOLs from across the spectrum of eye care providers – optometry, ophthalmology, and retina:

  • Paul M. Karpecki, O.D., F.A.A.O. – Cornea and Refractive Optometrist, Kentucky Eye Institute
  • Jay Pepose, M.D., Ph.D. – Cornea and Refractive Surgeon, Pepose Vision Institute
  • Peter Kaiser, M.D. – Vitreoretinal Surgeon, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic

Please register ahead of time for the Webinar on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at 1:00 pm EDT using this link.

Drs. Karpecki, Pepose, and Kaiser will discuss the large unmet need for a treatment to reverse approximately 100 million pharmacological dilations that occur each year. Dr. Pepose will present the positive Phase 3 results from the recently completed pivotal MIRA-2 trial for Nyxol for the reversal of pharmacologically induced mydriasis, which met its primary endpoint and multiple secondary endpoints. The panel will also discuss the pharmacological approaches that have been considered in the past, how Nyxol has the potential to address an unmet medical need as there are no commercial treatments currently available for reversal of mydriasis, and how a reversal agent could benefit their clinical practice and patients. An update will be provided on the reversal of mydriasis program, including the remaining steps prior to NDA submission and plans for commercialization. The KOLs and Ocuphire management will be available to answer questions following the panel discussion.

“There is a significant unmet need for patients with regards to the reversal of mydriasis, an indication that currently lacks a treatment. We are excited to hear from these experts who will provide their clinical perspective on how Nyxol will benefit both patients and physicians alike,” says Susan Benton, MBA, a 30-year veteran of the ophthalmic pharmaceutical and device industry and a director on Ocuphire’s Board. “As we plan our commercial strategy for launch, it is critical to work closely with eye care professionals who will play an important role in the adoption of this potential new treatment option if approved by the FDA.”

About the KOLs

Paul M. Karpecki
O.D., F.A.A.O. currently serves as Director of Cornea Services for Kentucky Eye Institute in Lexington KY, Gaddie Eye Centers in Louisville KY, and Center for Sight in Carmel IN. He is the Chief Medical Editor for Review of Optometry, chairman of the NTT Conferences and heads the journal’s clinical content. He is the Medical Director for KEPLR Vision. He was appointed co-chair for the previous two Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) Symposia and served on the DEWS II Diagnostic Methodology Committee. In 2017-2018 he completed a full year preceptorship in advanced retinal disease at Retina Associates of Kentucky, one of the top 20 retina programs in the country. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at the Kentucky College of Optometry and on the board of the charitable organization Optometry Giving Sight. Dr. Karpecki received his Doctor of Optometry degree from Indiana University and completed a Durrie Fellowship in Cornea & Refractive Surgery in Kansas City in affiliation with the Pennsylvania College of Optometry.

Jay Pepose, M.D., Ph.D. is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cataract, corneal, and refractive surgery. He is the founder and an attending surgeon of Pepose Vision Institute and Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Washington University School of Medicine, where he held the Bernard Becker Chair. An advisor and consultant to numerous ophthalmic companies throughout the world, he has published hundreds of peer reviewed articles, holds ophthalmology related patents, and has been at the forefront of the industry’s evolutionary changes throughout his career. He is recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Cogan Award from the Association of Research in Vision and Ophthalmology and has been elected to the American Ophthalmological Society. Dr. Pepose is actively involved in clinical research and has been the recipient of R-01 grant support from the National Eye Institute. He has served as executive editor of The American Journal of Ophthalmology, as well as on the editorial board of Investigational Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Cornea, and The Journal of Refractive Surgery. After obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree Magna Cum Laude with High Honors in Biology along with a Master of Arts in Neurophysiology from Brandeis University, Dr. Pepose completed the MD-PhD program at UCLA School of Medicine as a Regent’s Scholar and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. Dr. Pepose received residency training in ophthalmology and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from The Wilmer Institute of The Johns Hopkins Hospital and fellowship training in cornea, external disease and refractive surgery at Georgetown University Medical Center.

Peter K. Kaiser, M.D., is a clinical research expert, serving as Study Chairman of 5 major, multi-center, international clinical trials, and principal investigator in numerous studies for Age-related Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, and other retinal disorders. He is the founder and director of the Digital Optical Coherence Tomography Reading Center (DOCTR), Editor-in-Chief of Retinal Physician, Associate Editor of International Ophthalmology Clinics, and serves on the editorial boards of Retina, Retina Today, and Ocular Surgery News. He is a National Institute of Health (NIH) funded investigator, leading a team involved in the evaluation of vascular biology in age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Dr. Kaiser serves on numerous scientific advisory boards and addresses his research interests as an invited speaker at national and international conferences. He is a major contributor to the medical literature having authored 7 textbooks and more than 250 peer-reviewed papers, has been recognized by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and American Society of Retina Specialists with Senior Achievement Awards and is listed as one of the “Best Doctors in America.” Dr. Kaiser graduated magna cum laude with Highest Honors from Harvard College and Harvard Medical School. He completed an ophthalmology residency at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, and a vitreoretinal fellowship at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute before joining the vitreoretinal department of the Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland, Ohio.

About the Reversal of Mydriasis Market

Every year in the U.S., approximately 100 million eye exams are performed that require dilation of the pupil (mydriasis) to examine the back of the eye either for routine check-ups, disease monitoring or surgical procedures. Depending on the individual and the color of their eyes, the pharmacologically-induced dilation can last anywhere from 6 to 24 hours. Dilated eyes have heightened sensitivity to light and an inability to focus on near objects, causing difficulty with reading, working, and driving.

Market research conducted by GlobalData surveyed several hundred patients and eye care providers (optometrists and ophthalmologists) about reversal of mydriasis (as well as Night Vision Disturbances and Presbyopia). Over 65% of surveyed patients reported moderate to severe negative impact of a dilated exam. This underscores the potential value of the role of the investigational product candidate Nyxol in improving comfort and daily function after pupil dilation. Additionally, an estimated 45% of patients responded that they would be very likely to request a dilation reversal drop, and more than 40% of eye care providers would be likely to use a reversal drop if such a treatment were commercially available.

About Nyxol

Ocuphire’s lead product candidate, Nyxol® (0.75% phentolamine ophthalmic solution) Eye Drops, is a once-daily, preservative-free eye drop formulation of phentolamine mesylate, a non-selective alpha-1 and alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist designed to reduce pupil size, and is being developed for several indications, including dim light or night vision disturbances (NVD), reversal of pharmacologically-induced mydriasis (RM), and presbyopia. Nyxol has been studied in 8 clinical trials demonstrating a favorable safety and tolerability profile. Ocuphire recently reported positive top-line data for pivotal MIRA-2 Phase 3 trial for treatment of RM in March 2021. Nyxol met its primary endpoint in more rapidly reversing a dilated pupil back to its baseline diameter, as well as multiple secondary endpoints in this 185-patient clinical trial. Nyxol is also currently in Phase 2 for presbyopia with top-line results expected Q2 2021, and in Phase 3 clinical development for NVD with top-line results expected Q3 2021. Please visit www.clinicaltrials.gov to learn more about Ocuphire’s completed Phase 2 trials in RM, Glaucoma, and NVD, recently completed Phase 3 registration trial in RM (NCT04620213), and ongoing Phase 2 trial in presbyopia (NCT04675151) and Phase 3 registration trial in NVD (NCT04638660).

About Ocuphire Pharma

Ocuphire is a publicly traded (NASDAQ: OCUP), clinical-stage ophthalmic biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing therapies for the treatment of several eye disorders. Ocuphire’s pipeline currently includes two small-molecule product candidates – Nyxol and APX3330 – targeting front and back of the eye indications. As part of its strategy, Ocuphire will continue to explore opportunities to acquire additional ophthalmic assets and to seek strategic partners for late-stage development, regulatory preparation, and commercialization in key global markets. For more information, please visit www.ocuphire.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning Ocuphire’s product candidates, results of ongoing and future clinical trials, and commercialization and market opportunities. These forward-looking statements are based upon Ocuphire’s current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation: (i) the success and timing of regulatory submissions and pre-clinical and clinical trials, including enrollment and data readouts; (ii) regulatory requirements or developments; (iii) changes to clinical trial designs and regulatory pathways; (iv) changes in capital resource requirements; (v) risks related to the inability of Ocuphire to obtain sufficient additional capital to continue to advance its product candidates and its preclinical programs; (vi) legislative, regulatory, political and economic developments, (vii) changes in market opportunities, (viii) the effects of COVID-19 on clinical programs and business operations, (ix) the success and timing of commercialization of any of Ocuphire’s product candidates and (x) the maintenance of Ocuphire’s intellectual property rights. The foregoing review of important factors that could cause actual events to differ from expectations should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with statements that are included herein and elsewhere, including the risk factors detailed in documents that have been and may be filed by Ocuphire from time to time with the SEC. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made. Ocuphire undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

Ocuphire Contacts

Mina Sooch, President & CEO 
Ocuphire Pharma, Inc. 
[email protected] 
www.ocuphire.com  

Corey Davis, Ph.D.
LifeSci Advisors
[email protected]



ImmunoPrecise Moves SARS-CoV-2 PolyTope™ Cocktail Program’s Path Toward IND Filing

ImmunoPrecise Moves SARS-CoV-2 PolyTope Cocktail Program’s Path Toward IND Filing

– Demonstrating what the Company believes to be the first reported in vivo synergistic effects of a multi-antibody (3+) combination treatment

– Dr. Ilse Roodink and Dr. Debby Kruijsen to host live webinar “Function First: Using complementary antibody platforms to fight Covid-19” today at 11:00 am Eastern Daylight Time

VICTORIA, British Columbia–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd. (the “Company” or “IPA”) (NASDAQ: IPA) (TSX venture: IPA) announces the completion of an efficacy-driven, preclinical study demonstrating further evidence of the in vivo efficacy of a four monoclonal antibody cocktail against non-overlapping epitopes, utilizing an optimized formulation and, for the first time, demonstrating therapeutic synergy of the cocktail components in vivo.

Highlights of the study include:

  • Completed preclinical efficacy studies for its newly optimized 4-antibody cocktail (TATX-03b), showing strong in vivo therapeutic efficacy and synergy for the treatment and protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection
  • The Company believes these are the first publicly reported in vivo synergistic effects of a multi-antibody (3+) combination treatment
  • IPA’s optimized, 4-Ab cocktail (TATX-03b) shows high levels of efficacy in treating SARS-CoV-2 in the preclinical study
  • Updated mutant binding data demonstrates continued in vitro resistance against novel variants of concern, including the recently described Californian and New York variants
  • Company contracts ChemPartner Biologics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. for optimized, stable CHO pool generation and cell bank generation for use in cGMP manufacturing

Live Webinar Today – ““Function First: Using complementary antibody platforms to fight Covid-19” will be aired at 11:00 am Eastern Daylight Time (New York, GMT-04:00).

To learn how IPA’s PolyTope™ approach is designed to prevent the spread of novel variants, treat COVID-19, and prevent infection by SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, register for ImmunoPrecise’s webinar, to be held today, Thursday, May 20, 2021, hosted by Dr. Ilse Roodink and Dr. Debby Kruijsen.

Click HERE to Register

Background on IPA’s SARS-CoV-2 Variant Mitigation Program and Polytope Platform Approach

The company had previous announced 100% prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy of a similar antibody cocktail, notably demonstrating:

  • The cocktail resulted in strong anti-viral effects against SARS-CoV-2 in both protective and therapeutic settings.
  • Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infected Syrian hamsters cleared the lungs and throat of detectable replication-competent virus in 100% of the infected animals.
  • The IPA cocktail antibodies were equally effective in binding SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, including the South African, Brazil and UK variants.

Today, the company announces new, positive data, demonstrating the in vivo efficacy of a modified formulation of TATX-03b (for improved neutralization potency) as well as the inclusion of dose-range study to confirm in vivo synergy of the cocktail components. In addition, as anticipated based on previously announced binding data, the company confirmed that TATX-03b effectively neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (South African and UK) in in vitro pseudovirus assays and retains binding to the newly identified California (B.1.429), and New York (B.1.526) variants.

Preclinical Efficacy Data of Modified TATX-03

Synergy contributes to full in vivo efficacy of therapeutic treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection with TATX-03. In a preclinical study using a SARS-CoV-2 hamster challenge model of infection, treatment with TATX-03b, which was slightly adapted based on in vitro neutralization data showing improved potency boosting (via synergistic effects), resulted in suppression of replication-competent virus to undetectable levels in the lungs of all infected animals by day four post infection. While treatment of infected animals with either of two individual cocktail antibodies – dosed at the same total antibody as TATX-03b – cleared the lungs of detectable replication-competent virus in four out of five SARS-CoV-2 infected animals, inclusion of a dose-range confirmed in vivo synergistic effect of TATX-03b. To our knowledge, this is the first publicly reported study demonstrating in vivo synergistic effects in SARS-CoV-2 infected animals using a dose-escalation study. In IPA’s preclinical study:

  • IPA’s TATX-03b PolyTope antibody cocktail was administered as a single dose to hamsters that had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 mutant D614G. TATX-03b is highly efficacious, clearing replication-competent viral titer to undetectable levels in the lung in 100% (five out of five) animals. The included dose-range provides informative data on proper clinical dosing levels for human use.
  • The Company believes that these findings demonstrate in vivo synergistic effects of multi-antibody combination (beyond dual therapy) to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • Monotherapy with either of two individual components of TATX-03b were also shown in the study to be highly efficacious in 80% (four out of five) animals.
  • In vitro potency of TATX-03b is retained in pseudovirus neutralization assays adapted to UK and South African variants of concern, suggesting that it may also retain in vivo efficacy towards these variants.

“Apart from the advantage of our PolyTope approach to reduce mutagenic escape risk by broad epitope coverage of the spike protein, synergistic effects might be another important driver of sustainability of TATX-03b, as we observed retained in vitro neutralizing potency of our therapeutic cocktail in pseudovirus assays with the UK and South African variants while binding affinity of some of the individual components is reduced by corresponding mutations,” stated Dr. Ilse Roodink, ImmunoPrecise Global Program Director for Coronavirus. “In addition, synergistic effects open the possibility for lower dosing, which might clearly improve patient convenience without sacrificing effectivity.”

The TATX-03b formulation is intended to serve as the foundation for the Company’s cocktail as the Company prepares the product for clinical manufacturing.

It is notable that potential variants of concern continue to be discovered regularly, such as B.1.620, which recently emerged from Sub-Saharan Africa (Forbes, A Third SARS-CoV-2 Variant Of Interest (Potentially Concern) Emerges From Sub-Saharan Africa), published just two days ago. This report comes only weeks after the identification of another variant in Africa, which, according to the article’s author, Dr. Haseltine, “carries a similar wealth of dangerous mutations from an entirely separate lineage.”

“Many scientists anticipate the on-going emergence of novel variants, as the virus continues to replicate (the basis for new mutations) even in healthy, vaccinated individuals, and that these variants will continue to spread across the globe,” explained Dr. Jennifer Bath, CEO of ImmunoPrecise. “These variants will continue to create a moving target for vaccines and therapeutics that were not rationally designed to withstand the emergence of novel variants and strains. We believe this is where our long-term approach begins to pay off.” Dr. Bath adds, “Our therapeutic cocktail was designed not only to retain efficacy in the face of an ever-changing variant landscape, but also with the intent of preventing the emergence of novel variants, by inhibiting their replication, and therefore, preventing the spread of novel variants. Our approach may be key in enabling global pandemic response efforts to stay ahead of emerging variants, whereas even mono- and dual-therapies directed against conserved epitopes may remain subject to virus escape by mutation, in particular, as the application of those therapies themselves may apply a novel, selective pressure. We are actively reviewing our findings with select parties to determine the most effective and timely clinical path forward.”

Mutagenic Escape Risk Reduction and IPA’s PolyTope Approach

In developing IPA’s TATX-03b, the Company enrolled their PolyTope approach to facilitate cocktail formulations of antibodies that recognize non-overlapping SARS-CoV-2 spike protein epitopes to improve the breadth of epitope coverage of its product and minimize the risk of mutagenic escape as SARS-CoV-2 evolves. As treatment efficacy is not solely dependent on one antibody, a combination therapy is expected to be efficacious even if one of the components would be affected by a particular viral mutation. In addition, the “plug-and-play” character of IPA’s PolyTope approach is anticipated to facilitate adaptation of formulations, if required, leveraging IPA’s diversified lead antibody pool containing multiple antibody alternatives to each epitope as represented in a cocktail formulation.

Previously, IPA confirmed in cell-based, in vitro studies, that mutations in the circulating variants tested, including the UK (B.1.1.7), South Africa (B.1.351), and Brazil (P.1) lineages, did not affect binding of all members of the cocktail, since individual components have complementary binding interactions, allowing the cocktail to retain protection to these variants, i.e. minimizing the mutagenic escape by the virus. Further preclinical studies conducted by IPA revealed that the cocktail retained neutralization potency in pseudovirus assays adapted to UK and South African mutants and that the preclinical studies conducted to date by the Company also show that its antibody cocktail also remains effective in binding the more recently identified California (B.1.429), and New York (B.1.526) variants. Contrary to the use of mono- and dual- therapies, multi-antibody resistance to mutagenic escape has the potential to suppress the development of new variants, extending the medical and economic benefits of TATX-03b.

Clinical Preparedness

Based on the strong pre-clinical efficacy data, IPA is initiating what the Company anticipates as the final, necessary IND-enabling studies (pharmacokinetics and toxicology) required to support clinical evaluation of the PolyTope product. These studies are not expected to impact timelines, as the supporting data will be collected in parallel to activities supporting the advancement of both clinical manufacturing and IND filing.

Lastly, the Company has announced that they have sequence optimized their anti-SARS cocktail antibodies to increase expression, yield and quality outcomes of clinical products, while committing to ChemPartner Biologics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. for the generation of cell banks in a royalty-free host cell line for subsequent use in cGMP manufacturing.

About IPA’s PolyTope Platform

IPA’s SARS-CoV-2 PolyTope monoclonal therapies are designed to protect against mutagenic escape with an emphasis on efficacy for every patient, variant, and strain of SARS-CoV-2. They are created with the goal of sustainable efficacy in the face of an evolving virus, combining extensively characterized, potently neutralizing, synergistic antibodies exhibiting richly diverse epitope coverage.

About ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd.

IPA is an innovation-driven, technology platform company that supports its pharmaceutical and biotechnology company partners in their quest to discover and develop novel, therapeutic antibodies against all classes of disease targets. The Company aims to transform the conventional, multi-vendor, product development model by bringing innovative and high-throughput, data-driven technologies to its partners, incorporating the advantages of diverse antibody repertoires with the Company’s therapeutic antibody discovery suite of technologies, to exploit antibodies of broad epitope coverage, multiple antibody formats, valency and size, and to discover antibodies against multiple/rare epitopes. For further information, visit www.immunoprecise.com or contact [email protected].

Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable United States securities laws and Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of words such as “potential”, “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information contained in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the potential of IPA’s PolyTope monoclonal antibodies, including TATX-03, to provide strong anti-viral effects against SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 disease or any variant of the virus as either a prophylactic (preventative) or treatment, to retain efficacy over time, to reduce or suppress the emergence of novel variants as well as its potential to prevent the spread of variants, to have antibodies available to add to its PolyTope antibody cocktail to respond to new virus variants, the expected timing to complete final IND-enabling efficacy studies and whether those studies will be sufficient to support clinical evaluation. In respect of the forward-looking information contained herein, the Company has provided such statements and information in reliance on certain assumptions that management believed to be reasonable at the time.

Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements stated herein to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks, including, without limitation, the Company may not be successful in developing its PolyTope antibody cocktail or other vaccines or therapeutics against COVID-19 through the successful and timely completion of preclinical assays, studies and clinical trials, or may not receive all regulatory approvals to commence and then continue clinical trials of its products, and, be successful in partnering or commercializing its products related to COVID-19, the coverage and applicability of the Company’s intellectual property rights to its PolyTope antibody cocktails, as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated November 16, 2020 (which may be viewed on the Company’s profile at www.sedar.com) and the Company’s Form 40-F dated December 28, 2020 (which may be viewed on the Company’s profile at www.sec.gov). Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results, performance, or achievements may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information contained in this news release.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf, except as required by applicable law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Investors:

LifeSci Advisors

John Mullaly

Email: [email protected]

KEYWORDS: North America Canada

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Science Biotechnology Research Pharmaceutical General Health Health Infectious Diseases Clinical Trials

MEDIA:

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GOGL – Q1 2021 Presentation

Please find enclosed the presentation of Golden Ocean Group Limited’s first quarter 2021 results for today’s webcast / conferance call at 15:00 CET.

Attend by Webcast:

Use to the follow link prior to the webcast:
https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/4dtch4ov

Attend by Conference Call:

Applicable dial-in telephone numbers are as follows:

International Dial In/UK Local #: +44 (0) 2071 928000
United Kingdom (toll free): +44 (0) 8003 767922
Norway Toll Free #: 800 518 74
USA #:

 

+1 631-5107-495

 

Confirmation Code: 9661474
   

The presentation material which will be used in the teleconference/webcast can
be downloaded on www.goldenocean.bm and replay details will also be available at
this website.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

Attachment



Performance Shipping Inc. Reports Financial Results for the First Quarter Ended March 31, 2021

ATHENS, Greece, May 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Performance Shipping Inc. (NASDAQ: PSHG) (the “Company”), a global shipping company specializing in the ownership of tanker vessels, today reported net loss and net loss from continuing and discontinued operations attributable to common stockholders of $2.9 million for the first quarter of 2021, compared to net income and net income from continuing and discontinued operations attributable to common stockholders of $1.3 million and $2.8 million, respectively, for the same period in 2020. Loss per share for the first quarter of 2021 was $0.57, while earnings per share for the first quarter of 2020 was $0.60 (basic) and $0.58 (diluted).

Voyage and time charter revenues from continuing and discontinued operations were $8.4 million ($3.5 million net of voyage expenses) for the first quarter of 2021, compared to $13.5 million ($9.2 million net of voyage expenses) for the same period in 2020. This decrease was mainly attributable to the decreased time-charter equivalent rates (TCE rates) achieved during the quarter as a result of the depressed market conditions. Fleetwide, the average time charter equivalent rate for the first quarter of 2021 was $7,691, compared with an average rate of $21,386 for the same period in 2020. During the first quarter of 2021, net cash used in operating activities of continuing and discontinued operations was $1.4 million, compared with net cash provided by operating activities of continuing and discontinued operations of $7.1 million for the first quarter of 2020.

Commenting on the results of the first quarter of 2021, Mr. Andreas Michalopoulos, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, stated:

“Spot charter rates during the first quarter of 2021 remained at very low levels, as a result of a combination of weak consumer and industrial demand coupled with low crude oil and refined petroleum products production. Therefore, in accordance with our dividend policy, we will not declare and pay a dividend for our Q1 2021 results from operations. We expect spot charter rates, which continue to be at very low levels, to gradually recover over the successive quarters of 2021 as the COVID-19 pandemic recedes and demand for crude oil and refined petroleum products recovers. During the first quarter of 2021, we became a signatory of the Neptune Declaration and the UN Global Compact, and released our inaugural sustainability report, which can be found on our website. We remain keenly focused on our ESG efforts, which are an integral part of who we are, as we firmly believe they will meaningfully contribute to a better future for everyone.”


Tanker Market Update for the First Quarter 2021:

  • Fleet supply was 647.6 million dwt, up 0.9% from 641.7 million dwt from the previous quarter, and up 2.9% from Q1 2020 levels of 629.2 million dwt.
  • Tanker demand in billion tonne-miles is projected to increase by 4.1% in 2021, recovering from the lows experienced in 2020.
  • Tanker fleet supply in deadweight terms is estimated to grow by a moderate 3.0% in 2021.
  • Crude tanker fleet utilization was estimated at 82.0%, up from 79.6% from the previous quarter and down from Q1 2020 levels of 89.0%.
  • Newbuilding contracting at 9.7 million dwt resulted in the tanker orderbook remaining close to record low levels and representing 8.1% of the tanker fleet.
  • Daily spot charter rates for Aframax tankers averaged $10,527, up 84.3% from the previous quarter average of $5,713 and down 75.0% from Q1 2020 average of $41,610.     
  • The value of a 10-year-old Aframax tanker ended the quarter at $23.5 million, up 14.6% from the previous quarter assessed value of $20.5 million, and down 24.2% from Q1 2020 assessed value of $31.0 million.        
  • Tankers used for floating storage (excluding dedicated storage) was 180 (28.7 million dwt), down 21.4% from 229 (37.8 million dwt) from the previous quarter and up 176.9% from Q1 2020 levels of 65 (15.9 million dwt).
  • Global oil consumption was 94.8 million bpd, down 0.7% from the previous quarter level of 95.4 million bpd, and down 0.7% from Q1 2020 levels of 95.4 million bpd.
  • Global oil production was 92.5 million bpd, up 0.2% from the previous quarter level of 92.4 million bpd and down 7.8% from Q1 2020 levels of 100.3 million bpd.
  • OECD commercial inventories were 2,922.7 million barrels, down 3.4% from the previous quarter level of 3,025.8 million barrels, and down 1.4% from Q1 2020 levels of 2,962.8 million barrels.


Novel Coronavirus Risks:

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) outbreak a pandemic. In response to the outbreak, many countries, ports and organizations, including those where the Company conducts a large part of its operations, have implemented measures to combat the outbreak, such as quarantines, travel restrictions, and other emergency public health measures in an effort to contain the outbreak. Such measures have resulted in a significant reduction in global economic activity and extreme volatility in the global financial markets, which has reduced the global demand for oil and oil products, which the Company’s vessels transport.

Despite the global gradual recovery from COVID-19, the Company continues to take proactive measures to ensure the health and wellness of its crew and onshore employees while maintaining effective business continuity and uninterrupted service to its customers. The overall impact of COVID-19 on the Company’s business, and the efficacy of any measures the Company takes in response to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, will depend on how the outbreak further develops, the duration and extent of the restrictive measures that are associated with the pandemic and their impact on global economy and trade, which is still uncertain.

Summary of Selected Financial & Other Data

      For the three months ended March 31,
      2021    2020 
      (unaudited)   (unaudited)
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA (in thousands of US Dollars):
  Voyage and time charter revenues $ 8,397   $ 13,504  
  Voyage expenses   4,936     4,308  
  Vessel operating expenses   2,878     3,096  
  Net income / (loss)   (2,853 )   1,295  
  Net income / (loss) attributable to common stockholders   (2,853 )   2,795  
  Earnings / (Loss) per common share, basic   (0.57 )   0.60  
  Earnings / (Loss) per common share, diluted   (0.57 )   0.58  
FLEET DATA
  Average number of vessels   5.0     4.7  
  Number of vessels   5.0     6.0  
  Ownership days   450     430  
  Available days   450     430  
  Operating days, including ballast leg (2)   373     373  
  Fleet utilization, including ballast leg   82.9%     86.7%  
AVERAGE DAILY RESULTS
  Time charter equivalent (TCE) rate (3) $ 7,691   $ 21,386  
  Daily vessel operating expenses (4) $ 6,396   $ 7,200  

______________________________
(1) The table above includes data both from our Continuing and Discontinued Operations. Discontinued Operations refer to our container vessels segment that we disposed of in 2020.
   
(2) Operating days, including ballast leg, are the number of available days in a period less the aggregate number of days that our vessels are off-hire. The specific calculation does not count as off-hire the days of the ballast leg of the spot voyages, as long as a charter party is in place. The shipping industry uses operating days to measure the aggregate number of days in a period during which vessels actually generate revenues.
   
(3) Time charter equivalent rates, or TCE rates, are defined as our voyage and time charter revenues, less voyage expenses during a period divided by the number of our available days during the period, which is consistent with industry standards. Voyage expenses include port charges, bunker (fuel) expenses, canal charges and commissions. TCE is a non-GAAP measure. TCE rate is a standard shipping industry performance measure used primarily to compare daily earnings generated by vessels despite changes in the mix of charter types (i.e., voyage (spot) charters, time charters and bareboat charters).
   
(4) Daily vessel operating expenses, which include crew wages and related costs, the cost of insurance and vessel registry, expenses relating to repairs and maintenance, the costs of spares and consumable stores, lubricant costs, tonnage taxes, regulatory fees, environmental costs, lay-up expenses and other miscellaneous expenses, are calculated by dividing vessel operating expenses by ownership days for the relevant period.

Fleet Employment Profile (As of May 20, 2021)
Performance Shipping Inc.’s fleet is employed as follows:
                   
  Vessel Year
of
Built
Capacity Builder Gross Rate
(USD Per
Day)
Com

1
Charterers Delivery Date
to Charterers
Redelivery Date to
Owners


2
  Aframax Tanker Vessels
1 BLUE MOON 2011 104,623 DWT Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering Co., LTD. $28,000 5.00%   Aramco Trading Company, Saudi Arabia 19-Jun-20 19-Nov-21 – 18-Jan-22
2 BRIOLETTE 2011 104,588 DWT Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering Co., LTD. Spot   – – –
3 P. FOS 2007 115,577 DWT Sasebo Heavy Industries Co. Ltd Spot   – – –
4 P. KIKUMA 2007 115,915 DWT Samsung Heavy Industries Co Ltd. Spot   – – –
5 P. YANBU 2011 105,391 DWT Sumitomo Heavy Industries Marine & Engineering Co., LTD. Spot    – – –
(1) Total commission paid to third parties.
(2) Range of redelivery dates, with the actual date of redelivery being at the Charterers’ option, but subject to the terms, conditions, and exceptions of the particular charterparty.

 

About the Company

Performance Shipping Inc. is a global provider of shipping transportation services through its ownership of Aframax tankers. The Company’s current fleet is employed primarily in the spot market, and in some cases, on short to medium-term time charters, with leading energy companies and traders.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Matters discussed in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides safe harbor protections for forward-looking statements in order to encourage companies to provide prospective information about their business. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts.

The Company desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “believe,” “anticipate,” “intends,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “potential,” “may,” “should,” “expect,” “pending,” and similar expressions, terms or phrases may identify forward-looking statements.

The forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, our management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records and other data available from third parties. Although we believe that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections.

In addition to these important factors, other important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include the strength of world economies, fluctuations in currencies and interest rates, general market conditions, including fluctuations in charter hire rates and vessel values, changes in demand for our vessels, changes in the supply of vessels, changes in worldwide oil production and consumption and storage, changes in our operating expenses, including bunker prices, crew costs, dry-docking and insurance costs, our future operating or financial results, availability of financing and refinancing, changes in governmental rules and regulations or actions taken by regulatory authorities, potential liability from pending or future litigation, general domestic and international political conditions, the length and severity of epidemics and pandemics, including the ongoing outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impact on the demand for seaborne transportation of petroleum and other types of products, changes in governmental rules and regulations or actions taken by regulatory authorities, potential liability from pending or future litigation, general domestic and international political conditions or events, including “trade wars”, acts by terrorists or acts of piracy on ocean-going vessels, potential disruption of shipping routes due to accidents, labor disputes or political events, vessel breakdowns and instances of off-hires and other important factors. Please see our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties.

Disclaimer

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful.

(See financial tables attached)

PERFORMANCE SHIPPING INC.
FINANCIAL TABLES
Expressed in thousands of U.S. Dollars, except for share and per share data
UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUING AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS)
           
      For the three months ended March 31,
      2021    2020 
REVENUES:        
  Voyage and time charter revenues $ 8,397   $ 13,504  
           
EXPENSES:        
  Voyage expenses   4,936     4,308  
  Vessel operating expenses   2,878     3,096  
  Depreciation and amortization of deferred charges   1,816     1,101  
  Management fees       192  
  General and administrative expenses   1,503     2,612  
  Impairment losses       339  
  Provision for doubtful receivables   7     86  
  Foreign currency losses   51     21  
  Operating income / (loss) $ (2,794 ) $ 1,749  
           
OTHER INCOME / (EXPENSES):        
  Interest and finance costs   (467 )   (527 )
  Interest income   8     73  
  Other revenues   400      
  Total other expenses, net $ (59 ) $ (454 )
           
Net income / (loss) $ (2,853 ) $ 1,295  
           
Gain from repurchase of preferred shares       1,500  
           
Net income / (loss) attributable to common stockholders $ (2,853 ) $ 2,795  
           
Earnings / (Loss) per common share, basic * $ (0.57 ) $ 0.60  
           
Earnings / (Loss) per common share, diluted * $ (0.57 ) $ 0.58  
           
Weighted average number of common shares, *   5,007,493     4,696,773  
           
Weighted average number of common shares, *   5,007,493     4,788,339  
           
* Comparative figures were adjusted to give effect to the reverse stock split that became effective on November 2, 2020.
 
UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME / (LOSS)
           
      For the three months ended March 31,
      2021     2020  
           
Net income / (loss) $ (2,853 ) $ 1,295  
           
Comprehensive income/ (loss) $ (2,853 ) $ 1,295  
           

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA    
(Expressed in thousands of US Dollars)    
      March 31, 2021   December 31, 2020**

ASSETS
  (unaudited)    
           
Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,764 $ 21,378
Vessels, net   126,320   128,108
Other fixed assets, net   1,110   1,135
Other assets   10,800   7,233
  Total assets $ 155,994 $ 157,854
           

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
       
           
Long-term debt, net of unamortized deferred financing costs $ 55,725 $ 57,666
Other liabilities   6,245   3,391
Total stockholders’ equity   94,024   96,797
  Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 155,994 $ 157,854
           
* *The balance sheet data as of December 31, 2020 has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date.

OTHER FINANCIAL DATA (CONTINUING AND DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS)
           
      For the three months ended March 31,
      2021    2020 
      (unaudited)   (unaudited)
Net Cash provided by / (used in) Operating Activities $ (1,383 ) $ 7,094  
Net Cash used in Investing Activities $ (253 ) $ (41,272 )
Net Cash provided by / (used in) Financing Activities $ (1,978 ) $ 22,007  

Dividend Policy – Quarterly Calculations

Our Board of Directors has adopted a variable quarterly dividend policy, pursuant to which we may declare and pay a variable quarterly cash dividend. If declared, the quarterly dividend is expected to be paid each February, May, August and November and will be equal to available cash from operations during the previous quarter after cash payments for debt repayment and interest expense and reserves for the replacement of our vessels, scheduled drydockings, intermediate and special surveys and other purposes as our Board of Directors may from time to time determine are required, after taking into account contingent liabilities, the terms of any credit facility, our growth strategy and other cash needs as well as the requirements of Marshall Islands law. The declaration and payment of dividends is, at all times, subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors. Our Board of Directors may review and amend our dividend policy from time to time, in light of our plans for future growth and other factors.

In accordance with our dividend policy, and taking into account the above-listed factors, we expect to pay dividends only if during the preceding quarter Quarterly Cash Flow is positive and Quarter-End Excess Cash is also positive. As a general guideline, the amount of any such dividends is expected to be based on a pay-out ratio of the lower of i) Quarterly Cash Flow; and ii) Quarter-End Excess Cash. So long as our end of quarter outstanding debt exceeds our equity market capitalization our pay-out ratio is expected to be 50%. We will consider increasing the pay-out ratio gradually up to a maximum level of 90% that we may achieve when our end of quarter outstanding debt is less than 10% of our equity market capitalization. Quarter-End Excess Cash is defined as actual end of quarter Cash and Cash Equivalents over our Minimum Cash Threshold. Minimum Cash Threshold is defined as the sum of minimum liquidity pursuant to our loan agreements and $1.5 million per vessel. Our bank facilities currently require us to maintain minimum liquidity of $9.0 million.  

Quarterly Cash Flow is equal to voyage and time charter revenues less voyage expenses, less vessel operating expenses, less general and administrative expenses, less – the greater of i) net interest expense and repayment of long-term bank debt or ii) fleet replacement reserves – and less maintenance reserves for our fleet.

We believe the above approach will ensure the sustainability of our Company and replacement of our fleet as during quarters where either Excess Cash is negative or Quarterly Cash Flow is negative, we will not pay dividends until Quarterly Cash Flow is positive and Excess Cash is also positive. Below are our calculations of Quarter-End Excess Cash and Quarterly Cash Flow for the first quarter of 2021.

DIVIDEND CALCULATIONS
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. Dollars)
      For the three months ended March 31, 2021
  Voyage and time charter revenues $ 8,397  
  Less, Voyage expenses $ (4,936 )
  Less, Vessel operating expenses $ (2,878 )
  Less, General and administrative expenses $ (1,423 )
       
 
Less, Greater of (I) or (II):
   
  Interest and finance costs $ (467 )
  Plus, Repayment of long-term bank debt $ (1,978 )
  Total (I) $ (2,445 )
 
Or
   
  Replacement reserve (II) $ (1,714 )
       
  Less, Maintenance reserve   (438 )
Quarterly Cash Flow (A) $ (3,723 )
       
  Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,764  
  Less, Minimum Cash Threshold $ 16,500  
Quarter-End Excess Cash (B) $ 1,264  
       
Quarterly Cash Flow Test (A) >0, AND   Not eligible for dividend
Quarter-End Excess Cash Test (B) >0   Eligible for dividend
Cash Available for Dividend, lower (A) or (B) $  
  Payout ratio   50 %
Quarterly Dividend $  

(1) General and administrative expenses, for the purpose of calculating dividends, exclude non-cash items.
   
(2) Replacement reserves reflect the aggregate annual amount of cash that the Company retains to fund the replacement of each of its vessels. In addition to the replacement reserve retained and reinvested at a certain annual rate or equivalent debt repayment, the Company estimates at the specific expected replacement date to utilize funds from the proceeds of the scrap value of the vessels and the assumption of a modest level of debt to purchase the replacement vessel assuming such replacement is for a ten-year-old vessel at the ten-year historical mid-cycle value.
   
(3) Maintenance reserves are based on an estimated cost for the drydock, intermediate and special surveys of the vessels in our fleet over the recurring statutory five-year survey period. They are used, instead of actual maintenance costs when incurred, for purposes of calculating the quarterly dividend to remove the additional cash flow variability during quarters that drydocks occur.



Corporate Contact:
Andreas Michalopoulos
Chief Executive Officer, Director and Secretary
Telephone: + 30-216-600-2400
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.pshipping.com

For Immediate Release

Investor and Media Relations:
Edward Nebb
Comm-Counsellors, LLC
Telephone: + 1-203-972-8350
Email: [email protected]

Wasabi Raises Additional $25M in Funding, Led by Prosperity7 Ventures, and Extends Series C to $137M in Financing

Additional strategic investments will fuel data center and new market expansion

BOSTON, MA, May 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wasabi, the hot cloud storage company, today announced $25 million in additional funding led by Prosperity7 Ventures, the diversified growth fund of Aramco Ventures. Western Digital Capital, the investment arm of storage device manufacturer Western Digital, also participated in the round. This round is an extension of Wasabi’s Series C financing announced in April, expanding the total funding raised for the round to $137 million and the company’s total equity financing to $244 million.

This latest round of funding comes as Wasabi reported 3x year-over-year growth, reaching 23,000 customers worldwide and over 5,000 Channel Partners and 350 Technology Alliance Partners. The additional capital will be used to further accelerate Wasabi’s worldwide roll-out of data centers and to grow the company’s distribution channels and partner network while continuing to build a team to support this rapid expansion.

“I am delighted to have these two new strategic investors,” said Wasabi CEO & Co-Founder, David Friend. “We have been using Western Digital disk drives since the founding of the company. Their investment in Wasabi reflects the fact that data storage in the cloud is accelerating and that there is a growing interdependence between our companies. As for Aramco, we see the energy sector as a huge potential market for cloud storage and to have the VC Fund of the world’s largest energy company invest in Wasabi couldn’t be timelier. We are also interested in the Middle East as a potential market in general.”

Wasabi’s low-cost, high-performance cloud storage is enabling companies to cut their data storage costs by 75% or more. Data-intensive industries, such as energy and exploration, are making extensive use of AI to extract value from their data. But the cost of storing large amounts can make some of these AI-based applications difficult to justify. Reducing the cost of cloud data storage by 75% or more changes the equation and facilitates more rapid development of data-rich AI applications.

“Companies like Aramco are sitting on mountains of exploration and operational data. Energy, medical imaging and diagnostics, genomics, surveillance and finance are among many industries that are profiting from the use of AI. The thing to remember, however, is that the value of AI is completely dependent on having a rich source of data. That’s why a company like Wasabi is a natural fit with a company like Aramco,” continued Friend.

“Wasabi changes the economics of data storage,” said Aysar Tayeb, Executive Managing Director of Prosperity7 Ventures. “There is undisputed massive growth of data generated from almost everything we do, and this will intensify with more 5G, smart cities, IoT, and many other applications. Bringing a solution to the market that offers a significantly lower-cost storage option, at scale, is a timely necessity. We are excited about the value proposition of Wasabi and are pleased to support its vision to store as much of the world’s data as possible”.

“IDC forecasts that the public cloud IaaS market will grow more than 30% annually in 2021, as enterprises move toward post-pandemic recovery and operation; while also prioritizing strategic goals around digital transformation and IT modernization,” said Andrew Smith, Research Manager, Cloud Infrastructure Services for IDC. “This growth of the cloud infrastructure market is pervasive across all geographies, including EMEA, where we forecast the market will expand at a 28% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next four years.”

“In the future, most of the world’s data will live in the cloud,” said Daniel Flynn, President and Treasurer, Western Digital Capital. “We’ve partnered and invested with Wasabi because its mission – to store data in the cloud – aligns with our strategy to partner with cloud customers to provide the foundational technologies underpinning the global data infrastructure. We are excited to help fuel continued growth and global data center build-out as Wasabi revolutionizes the cloud market.”

Wasabi’s storage is 1/5th the cost and faster than the competition with no fees for egress or API requests. For those currently using a private cloud, the availability of a public cloud through Wasabi extends data resources for greater overall capacity without the hefty price tag. For more information on Wasabi’s hot cloud storage, please visit Wasabi.com.

About Wasabi

Wasabi provides simple, predictable and affordable hot cloud storage for businesses all over the world. It enables organizations to store and instantly access an infinite amount of data at 1/5th the price of the competition with no complex tiers or unpredictable egress fees. Trusted by tens of thousands of customers worldwide, Wasabi has been recognized as one of technology’s fastest-growing and most visionary companies. Created by Carbonite co-founders and cloud storage pioneers David Friend and Jeff Flowers, Wasabi has secured nearly $275 million in funding to date and is a privately held company based in Boston.

Follow and connect with Wasabi on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and our blog.

About Prosperity7 Ventures

Prosperity7 Ventures is the diversified growth fund of Aramco Ventures, a subsidiary of Aramco, the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals company. The fund’s name derives from ‘Prosperity Well’, the 7th oil well drilled in Saudi Arabia and the first to strike oil. Taking forward this pioneering history, we invest globally, with a long term-view, in breakthrough technologies and transformational business models that will bring prosperity and positive impact on a vast scale.
www.P7VC.com

 



Nick Brown
InkHouse for Wasabi
[email protected]

Petco Health + Wellness Company, Inc. Announces Record Results for First Quarter of Fiscal 2021; Raises Full Year Outlook

– Revenue of $1.4B, up 27%, driven by comp sales up 28%; Tenth consecutive quarter of growth

– Earnings per share of $0.03; Adjusted earnings per share of $0.17

– Acquired roughly 1.2M net new customers; Third consecutive quarter 1M or more

– Raised full year 2021 guidance following record first quarter

PR Newswire

SAN DIEGO, May 20, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Petco Health and Wellness Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: WOOF), a complete partner in pet health and wellness, today released its financial results for its first quarter ended May 1, 2021. 

In the first quarter of 2021, Petco delivered net revenue growth of 27 percent versus prior year with comparable sales growth of 28 percent and delivered 30 percent comparable sales growth on a two-year stack, marking the tenth consecutive quarter of growth for Petco.  Net income improved $38.7 million or $0.18 per share to $7.6 million or $0.03 per share.  Adjusted Net Income1 increased $60.0 million from prior year to $44.4 million or $0.17 per share, while first quarter Adjusted EBITDA1 increased 45 percent to $125.7 million from prior year.   

“We entered 2021 with momentum, and delivered record quarterly sales in Q1 driven by our strong execution and unique model across digital and in our Pet Care Centers,” said Ron Coughlin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Petco. “We’re attracting new customers and gaining market share in a growing category through our unique end to end health and wellness ecosystem. There are more pets in homes than ever and the 1.2 million net new customers we gained in the quarter is a multi-year high, that provides an annuity for years to come. The category acceleration combined with a strengthening of our customer base give us confidence to raise our full year guidance.”

Petco reduced total debt by 52 percent to $1.7 billion and Net Debt1 by 53 percent to $1.5 billion using the proceeds from the company’s initial public offering, the recapitalization of a portion of debt outstanding at the time of the initial public offering and Free Cash Flow1 generation. 

Fiscal Q1 2021 Highlights:

Comparisons are first quarter of 2021 ended May 1, 2021 versus first quarter of 2020 ended May 2, 2020 unless otherwise noted

  • Net revenue increased 27 percent to $1.4 billion driven by comp sales growth of 28 percent
  • Net income increased $38.7 million to $7.6 million or $0.03 per share, inclusive of $20.8 million of non-cash charges related to the refinancing of the company’s term loan and revolving credit facility
  • Trailing twelve month net income of $12.2 million increased $101.8 million
  • Adjusted Net Income1 increased $60.0 million to $44.4 million or $0.17 per share
  • Adjusted EBITDA1 increased 45 percent to $125.7 million
  • Trailing Twelve Month Adjusted EBITDA increased 26% to $523.3 million
  • Net cash provided by operating activities increased $147.3 million to $115.0 million
  • Free Cash Flow1 increased $127.8 million to $67.7 million
  • Total debt decreased $1.8 billion or 52% to $1.7 billion driven by the proceeds generated in the company’s initial public offering, related recapitalization, and Free Cash Flow1 generation
  • Net Debt1 decreased $1.7 billion or 53% to $1.5 billion
  • Net Debt1 / Trailing Twelve Month Adjusted EBITDA1 improved 62 percent to 2.9x
  • Liquidity of $594.5 million inclusive of $174.0 million of cash and cash equivalents and $420.5 million of availability on revolving credit facility.
  • Ended the quarter with 1,453 Pet Care Centers, 137 Full Service Vet Hospitals within Pet Care Centers, and 100 Pet Care Centers in Mexico 

Fiscal 2021 Guidance:

The following guidance as of May 20, 2021 reflects the company’s expectations for fiscal year 2021 unless otherwise indicated.  

Metric

Current Guidance

Previous Guidance

Revenue

$5.475 billion – $5.575 billion

$5.25 billion – $5.35 billion

Adjusted EBITDA2

$550 million – $560 million

$520 million – $530 million

Adjusted EPS2

$0.73 – $0.76

$0.63 – $0.66

Capital Expenditures

$185 million – $235 million

$185 million – $235 million3

Assumptions in the guidance include that economic conditions, currency rates and the tax and regulatory landscape remain generally consistent. The company continues to monitor those assumptions and any potential financial impacts. Adjusted EPS guidance assumes approximately $90 million of interest expense, a 26% tax rate and 266 million weighted average diluted share count.

(1)

Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income, Adjusted EPS, Free Cash Flow, and Net Debt are non-GAAP financial measures.  See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for additional information on non-GAAP financial measures and a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP measures.

(2)

We have not reconciled Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EPS outlook as non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP measures because it is not possible to do so without unreasonable efforts due to the uncertainty and potential variability of reconciling items, which are dependent on future events and often outside of management’s control and which could be significant. Because such items cannot be reasonably predicted with the level of precision required, we are unable to provide outlooks for the comparable GAAP measures.  Forward–looking estimates of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EPS are estimated in a manner consistent with the relevant definitions and assumptions noted herein.

(3)

Previous capital expenditure guidance was given in the 10-K.

Earnings Conference Call Webcast Information:

The company will host an earnings conference call on May 20, 2021 at 8:30 AM Eastern Time to discuss Petco’s financial results.  The conference call will be accessible through live webcast.  Interested investors and other individuals can access the webcast, earnings press release, earnings presentation, and financial supplement via the company’s investor relations page (https://ir.petco.com/investor-relations).  A replay of the webcast will be archived on the company’s website through June 3, 2021 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time.

About Petco:

Petco is a category-defining health and wellness company focused on improving the lives of pets, pet parents and our own Petco partners. Since our founding in 1965, we’ve been striving to set new standards in pet care, delivering comprehensive wellness solutions through our products and services, and creating communities that deepen the pet-pet parent bond. We operate more than 1,500 Petco locations across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, including a growing network of 137 in-store veterinary hospitals, and offer a complete online resource for pet health and wellness at petco.com and on the Petco app. In tandem with Petco Love (formerly the Petco Foundation), an independent nonprofit organization, we work with and support thousands of local animal welfare groups across the country and, through in-store adoption events, we’ve helped find homes for more than 6.5 million animals.


Forward-Looking Statements

This earnings release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, concerning expectations, beliefs plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements that are not statements of historical fact, including statements regarding our environmental and other sustainability plans and goals.  Although the company believes that the expectations and assumptions reflected in these statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that these expectations will prove to be correct. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking results will occur or be realized, and nothing contained in this earnings release is, or should be relied upon as, a promise or representation or warranty as to any future matter, including any matter in respect of the operations or business or financial condition of Petco. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “intends,” “will,” “shall,” “should,” “anticipates,” “opportunity,” “illustrative”, or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. All forward-looking statements are based on assumptions or judgments about future events that may or may not be correct or necessarily take place and that are by their nature subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are outside the control of Petco. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the potential results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, those identified in this earnings release, the risk factors that the company identifies in its Securities and Exchange Commission filings, as well as the following: (i) increased competition (including from multi-channel retailers and e-Commerce providers); (ii) reduced consumer demand for our products and/or services; (iii) our reliance on key vendors; (iv) our ability to attract and retain qualified employees; (v) risks arising from statutory, regulatory and/or legal developments; (vi) macroeconomic pressures in the markets in which we operate; (vii) failure to effectively manage our costs; (viii) our reliance on our information technology systems; (ix) our ability to prevent or effectively respond to a privacy or security breach; (x) our ability to effectively manage strategic ventures, alliances or acquisitions; (xi) economic or regulatory developments that might affect our ability to provide attractive promotional financing; (xii) interruptions and other supply chain issues; (xiii) catastrophic events, health crises, and pandemics, including the potential effects that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and/or corresponding macroeconomic uncertainty could have on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows; (xiv) our ability to maintain positive brand perception and recognition; (xv) product safety and quality concerns; (xvi) changes to labor or employment laws or regulations; (xvii) our ability to effectively manage our real estate portfolio; (xviii) constraints in the capital markets or our vendor credit terms; and (xix) changes in our credit ratings.  The occurrence of any such factors, events, or circumstances would significantly alter the results set forth in these statements.

Petco cautions that the foregoing list of important factors is not complete, and any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Petco undertakes no duty to update publicly any forward-looking statement that it may make, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law, regulation or other competent legal authority.


PETCO HEALTH AND WELLNESS COMPANY, INC.


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In Thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited and subject to reclassification)


13 Weeks Ended


May 1,
2021


May 2,
2020


Percent
Change


Net sales


$ 1,414,994


$ 1,113,521


27%

Cost of sales

818,009

647,239

26%


Gross profit


596,985


466,282


28%

Selling, general and administrative expenses

549,236

449,917

22%


Operating income


47,749


16,365


192%

Interest income

(21)

(184)

(89%)

Interest expense

20,529

60,808

(66%)

Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt

20,838

N/M


Income (loss) before income taxes and income from
   equity method investees


6,403


(44,259)

N/M

Income tax expense (benefit)

2,679

(10,555)

N/M

Income from equity method investees

(2,425)

(332)

630%


Net income (loss)


6,149


(33,372)


N/M

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest

(1,411)

(2,204)

(36%)


Net income (loss) attributable to Class A and B-1 common
   stockholders


$         7,560


$     (31,168)


N/M


Net income (loss) per Class A and B-1 common share:

Basic

$        0.03

$       (0.15)

N/M

Diluted

$        0.03

$       (0.15)

N/M


Weighted average shares used in computing net income (loss) per Class A
   and B-1 common share:

Basic

264,215

209,015

26%

Diluted

265,028

209,015

27%

 


PETCO HEALTH AND WELLNESS COMPANY, INC.


CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In Thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited and subject to reclassification)


 May 1, 2021 


 January 30, 2021 


ASSETS

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$              174,034

$              111,402

Receivables, less allowance for credit losses1

38,079

41,827

Merchandise inventories, net

574,683

538,675

Prepaid expenses

46,724

40,032

Other current assets

42,355

45,613

Total current assets

875,875

777,549

Fixed assets

1,535,617

1,487,987

Less accumulated depreciation

(896,195)

(860,440)

Fixed assets, net

639,422

627,547

Operating lease right-of-use assets

1,330,816

1,328,108

Goodwill

2,179,310

2,179,310

Trade name

1,025,000

1,025,000

Other intangible assets

4,793

4,793

Less accumulated amortization

(4,164)

(4,079)

Other intangible assets, net

629

714

Other long-term assets

142,347

137,474

Total assets

$           6,193,399

$           6,075,702


LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Accounts payable and book overdrafts

$              352,401

$              339,485

Accrued salaries and employee benefits

127,000

129,484

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

218,926

145,846

Current portion of operating lease liabilities

276,619

258,289

Current portion of long-term debt and other lease liabilities

20,234

2,203

Total current liabilities

995,180

875,307

Senior secured credit facilities, net, excluding current portion

1,649,509

1,646,281

Operating lease liabilities, excluding current portion

1,056,059

1,083,575

Deferred taxes, net

282,350

280,920

Other long-term liabilities

138,069

134,354

Total liabilities

4,121,167

4,020,437

Commitments and contingencies

Stockholders’ equity:

Class A common stock2

226

226

Class B-1 common stock3

38

38

Class B-2 common stock4

Preferred stock5

Additional paid-in-capital

2,103,714

2,092,110

Accumulated deficit

(14,691)

(22,251)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(2,061)

(1,275)

Total stockholders’ equity

2,087,226

2,068,848

Noncontrolling interest

(14,994)

(13,583)

Total equity

2,072,232

2,055,265

Total liabilities and equity

$           6,193,399

$           6,075,702

(1)

Allowances for credit losses are $2,217 as of May 1, 2021 and $3,267 as of Jan 30, 2021 

(2)

Class A common stock, par value $0.001 per share (1.0 billion shares authorized and 226.5 million shares issued and outstanding as of May 1, 2021 and 226.4 million shares issued and outstanding as of January 30, 2021)

(3)

Class B-1 common stock, par value $0.001 per share (75.0 million shares authorized and 37.8 million shares issued and outstanding)

(4)

Class B-2 common stock, par value $0.000001 per share (75.0 million shares authorized and 37.8 million shares issued and outstanding)

(5)

Preferred stock, par value $0.001 per share (25.0 million shares authorized and no shares issued or outstanding)

 


PETCO HEALTH AND WELLNESS COMPANY, INC.


CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In Thousands)

(Unaudited and subject to reclassification)


13 Weeks Ended


May 1,
2021


May 2,
2020


Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income (loss)

$       6,149

$     (33,372)

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in)
  operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

41,607

43,567

Amortization of debt discounts and issuance costs

2,165

6,028

Provision for deferred taxes

1,708

(11,680)

Equity-based compensation

11,604

2,305

Impairments, write-offs and losses on sale of fixed and other assets

947

3,409

Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt

20,838

Income from equity method investees

(2,425)

(332)

Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income

2,337

Change in contingent consideration obligation

(553)

Non-cash operating lease costs

105,188

108,841

Changes in assets and liabilities:

Receivables

3,748

(3,767)

Merchandise inventories

(36,008)

(3,307)

Prepaid expenses and other assets

(9,140)

(6,302)

Accounts payable and book overdrafts

20,119

(74,074)

Accrued salaries and employee benefits

(2,483)

(10,153)

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

66,120

5,853

Operating lease liabilities

(116,994)

(64,188)

Other long-term liabilities

1,859

3,099

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

115,002

(32,289)


Cash flows from investing activities:

Cash paid for fixed assets

(47,351)

(27,895)

Net cash used in investing activities

(47,351)

(27,895)


Cash flows from financing activities:

Borrowings under long-term debt agreements

1,700,000

397,000

Repayments of long-term debt

(1,678,111)

(142,313)

Debt refinancing costs and original issue discount

(24,665)

Payments for finance lease liabilities

(593)

(935)

Payment of offering costs

(3,844)

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

(7,213)

253,752

Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

60,438

193,568

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period

119,540

154,718

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period

$    179,978

$    348,286


NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

The following information provides definitions and reconciliations of the non-GAAP financial measures presented in this earnings release to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).  The company has provided this non-GAAP financial information, which is not calculated or presented in accordance with GAAP, as information supplemental and in addition to the financial measures presented in the earnings release that are calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP.  Such non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered superior to, as a substitute for or alternative to, and should be considered in conjunction with, the GAAP financial measures presented in the earnings release. The non-GAAP financial measures in the earnings release may differ from similarly titled measures used by other companies.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA is considered a non-GAAP financial measure under the SEC’s rules because it excludes certain charges included in net income (loss) calculated in accordance with GAAP. Management believes that Adjusted EBITDA is a meaningful measure to share with investors because it best allows comparison of the current period performance with that of the comparable period. In addition, Adjusted EBITDA affords investors a view of what management considers Petco’s operating performance to be as well as the ability to make a more informed assessment of such operating performance as compared with that of the prior period.

Please see the company’s 10-K filed on April 5, 2021 for additional information on the reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Class A and B-1 Common Stockholders to Adjusted EBITDA. The tables below reflect the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA for the thirteen weeks and trailing twelve months ended May 1, 2021 compared to the prior year quarter and twelve-month period ended May 2, 2020, respectively.


(In Thousands)


13 Weeks Ended


Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Class A and B-1
   Common Stockholders to Adjusted EBITDA


May 1,
2021


May 2,
2020


Net income (loss) attributable to Class A and B-1 common stockholders


$         7,560


$     (31,168)

Add (deduct):

Interest expense, net

20,508

60,624

Income tax expense (benefit)

2,679

(10,555)

Depreciation and amortization

41,607

43,567

Income from equity method investees

(2,425)

(332)

Loss on debt extinguishment and modification

20,838

Asset impairments and write offs

947

3,409

Equity-based compensation

11,604

2,305

Mexico joint venture EBITDA1

6,006

4,019

Store pre-opening expenses

4,029

1,908

Store closing expenses

1,103

1,027

Severance

818

3,084

Non-cash occupancy-related costs2

1,139

7,200

Non-recurring costs3

9,333

1,748


Adjusted EBITDA


$    125,746


$      86,836

Net sales

$1,414,994

$1,113,521

Net margin4

0.5%

(2.8%)

Adjusted EBITDA Margin

8.9%

7.8%

 


(In Thousands)


Trailing Twelve Months


Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Class A and B-1
   Common Stockholders to Adjusted EBITDA


May 1,
2021


May 2,
2020


Net income (loss) attributable to Class A and B-1 common stockholders


$      12,245


$     (89,560)

Add (deduct):

Interest expense, net

178,314

248,915

Income tax expense (benefit)

9,897

(33,699)

Depreciation and amortization

172,876

171,593

Income from equity method investees

(8,575)

(2,755)

Loss on debt extinguishment and modification

38,387

Goodwill & indefinite-lived intangible impairment

19,000

Asset impairments and write offs

13,144

10,523

Equity-based compensation

22,214

10,067

Mexico joint venture EBITDA1

21,061

15,199

Store pre-opening expenses

11,349

9,648

Store closing expenses

7,858

4,914

Severance

3,017

10,567

Non-cash occupancy-related costs2

13,179

30,911

Non-recurring costs3

28,292

8,328


Adjusted EBITDA


$    523,258


$    413,651

Net sales

$5,221,675

$4,450,878

Net margin4

0.2%

(2.0%)

Adjusted EBITDA Margin

10.0%

9.3%

 

Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS

Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to Petco (Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS respectively) are considered non-GAAP financial measures under the SEC’s rules because they exclude certain amounts included in the net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders and diluted earnings per share attributable to Petco calculated in accordance with GAAP (net income (loss) and EPS respectively), the most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Management believes that Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS are meaningful measures to share with investors because they best allow comparison of the current period performance with that of the comparable period. In addition, Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS afford investors a view of what management considers Petco’s earnings performance to be as well as the ability to make a more informed assessment of such earnings performance with that of the prior period.

The tables below reflect the calculation of Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted EPS for the thirteen weeks ended May 1, 2021 compared to the prior year quarter ended May 2, 2020.


(In Thousands, except per share amounts)


13 Weeks Ended


Reconciliation of Diluted Income (Loss) per Share to Adjusted EPS


May 1, 2021


May 2, 2020


Amount


Per share


Amount


Per share


Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders / diluted income (loss)
per share


$   7,560


$       0.03


$ (31,168)


$     (0.15)

Add (deduct):

Income tax expense (benefit)

2,679

0.01

(10,555)

(0.05)

Loss on debt extinguishment and modification

20,838

0.08

Asset impairments and write offs

947

0.00

3,409

0.02

Equity-based compensation

11,604

0.04

2,305

0.01

Store pre-opening expenses

4,029

0.02

1,908

0.01

Store closing expenses

1,103

0.00

1,027

0.01

Severance

818

0.00

3,084

0.01

Non-cash occupancy-related costs2

1,139

0.01

7,200

0.03

Non-recurring costs3

9,333

0.04

1,748

0.01

Adjusted pre-tax income (loss) / diluted earnings (loss) per share

$60,050

$     0.23

$(21,042)

$    (0.10)

Income tax expense (benefit) at 26% normalized tax rate

15,613

0.06

(5,471)

(0.03)


Adjusted Net Income (Loss) / Adjusted EPS


$ 44,437


$       0.17


$ (15,571)


$     (0.07)

Free Cash Flow

Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP financial measure that is calculated as net cash generated by operations less cash paid for fixed assets.  Management believes that Free Cash Flow, which measures the ability to generate additional cash from business operations, is an important financial measure for use in evaluating the company’s financial performance.

Although other companies report their Free Cash Flow, numerous methods exist for calculating a company’s Free Cash Flow. As a result, the method used by Petco’s management to calculate Free Cash Flow may differ from the methods used by other companies to calculate their Free Cash Flow.

The following table sets forth a reconciliation of Free Cash Flow to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities, which Petco believes to be the GAAP financial measure most directly comparable to Free Cash Flow.  The table below reflects the calculation of Free Cash Flow for the thirteen weeks ended May 1, 2021 compared to the prior year quarter ended May 2, 2020.


(In Thousands)


13 Weeks Ended


May 1, 2021


May 2, 2020

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

$     115,002

$      (32,289)

Cash paid for fixed assets

(47,351)

(27,895)

Free Cash Flow

$       67,651

$      (60,184)

Net Debt

Net Debt is a non-GAAP financial measure that is calculated as the sum of current and non-current debt, less cash and cash equivalents.  Management considers this adjustment useful because it reduces the volatility of total debt caused by fluctuations between cash paid against the company’s revolving credit facility and cash held on hand in cash and cash equivalents.

Although other companies report their Net Debt, numerous methods exist for calculating a company’s Net Debt. As a result, the method used by Petco’s management to calculate Net Debt may differ from the methods used by other companies to calculate their Net Debt.

The following table sets forth a reconciliation of Net Debt, to total debt, which Petco believes to be the GAAP financial measure most directly comparable to Net Debt.  The table below reflects the calculation of Net Debt as of the period ended May 1, 2021 compared to the prior year quarter ended May 2, 2020.


(In Thousands)


May 1, 2021


May 2, 2020

Total debt:

Senior secured credit facilities, net, including current portion

$         1,666,509

$         2,647,461

Senior notes, net

866,952

Finance leases, including current portion

16,409

15,504


Total debt


1,682,918


3,529,917

Less: cash and cash equivalents

(174,034)

(341,506)


Net Debt


$         1,508,884


$         3,188,411

Trailing Twelve Month Adjusted EBITDA

$            523,258

$            413,651

Net Debt / Trailing Twelve Month Adjusted EBITDA ratio

2.9x

7.7x

Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS Footnotes

(1)

Mexico Joint Venture EBITDA represents 50% of the entity’s operating results for all periods, as adjusted to reflect the results on a basis comparable to Adjusted EBITDA. In the financial statements, this joint venture is accounted for as an equity method investment, and reported net of depreciation and income taxes. Because such a presentation would not reflect the adjustments made in the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA, we include the 50% interest in the company’s Mexico joint venture on an Adjusted EBITDA basis to ensure consistency. The table below presents a reconciliation of Mexico joint venture net income to Mexico joint venture EBITDA.


(In Thousands)


13 Weeks Ended


May 1, 2021


May 2, 2020

Net income

$      4,849

$         728

Depreciation

3,400

3,154

Income tax expense

2,780

1,295

Foreign currency (gain) loss

(145)

1,557

Interest expense, net

1,128

1,304

EBITDA

$    12,012

$      8,038

50% of EBITDA

$      6,006

$      4,019

(2)

Non-cash occupancy-related costs include the difference between cash and straight-line rent for all periods. Beginning in fiscal 2019, in connection with our adoption of the lease accounting standard, favorable lease rights of $125.2 million and unfavorable lease rights of $30.8 million were reclassified from intangible assets and other long-term liabilities, respectively, to right-of-use lease assets and the related amortization is now included in non-cash occupancy costs. In addition to the reclassification, the amortization period of these lease right assets has decreased to align with the terms of the underlying right-of-use lease assets, thus resulting in an acceleration of expense compared to prior years. The overall adoption of the lease accounting standard did not have an impact on our Adjusted EBITDA, as this increase in addback was completely offset in other impacted lines such as lower depreciation and amortization, asset impairments and write-offs, and store closing expenses. 

(3)

Non-recurring costs include: unrealized fair market value adjustments on non-operating investments; class action settlements and related legal fees; one-time consulting and other costs associated with our strategic transformation initiatives; discontinuation and liquidation costs; and costs related to the initial public offering. While we have incurred significant costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic during fiscal 2020, we have not classified any of these costs as non-recurring due to the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic’s length and long-term impact on the macroeconomic operating environment.

(4)

We define net margin as net income (loss) attributable to Class A and B-1 common stockholders divided by net sales and Adjusted EBITDA margin as Adjusted EBITDA divided by net sales.

WOOF-F

 

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SOURCE Petco Health and Wellness Company, Inc.

Golar LNG Limited: Interim results for the period ended 31 March 2021

NFE transactions closed, strong shipping rates despite seasonality, and gas prices supportive of upstream activities

The first quarter and subsequent months have been positive and eventful for Golar. With the announcement of the sale of Golar LNG Partners LP (“GMLP”) and Hygo Energy Transition Ltd. (“Hygo”) to New Fortress Energy (“NFE”) on January 13, and closing of the transactions on April 15, Golar has made significant progress simplifying its business, crystalizing the value of its asset portfolio, and strengthening its balance sheet.

We are encouraged by the strength of shipping rates during what is normally a seasonally weak period, with TFDE1 spot rates currently around $70,000 per day. The negative impact of potential EEXI regulations on the viability of up to 254 steam turbine carriers relative to a global on-the-water fleet of 597 vessels and a 130 vessel orderbook means that Golar’s longer term view of the shipping business has also materially improved. The few shipyards capable of building LNG carriers are filling with container newbuild orders and we do not see potential for significant new LNG carrier orders before 2024. Over the same timeframe LNG trade is expected to continue to grow by a 4% CAGR. This should allow for improved earnings from our carrier portfolio and create a supportive backdrop for this as a stand-alone business.

Current and forward energy prices are also strengthening, increasing the attractiveness of LNG upstream investments and our FLNG technology. We continue to pursue FLNG growth projects including both tolling arrangements and opportunities to develop hydrocarbon exposure through ownership of gas molecules suitable for production by our FLNG technology.

Finally, we are pleased to have appointed Mr. Karl Fredrik Staubo as CEO and Mr. Eduardo Maranhao as CFO. With their GMLP and Hygo backgrounds both have been intimately involved with the business for some time and will be familiar faces to Golar stakeholders, allowing for a seamless transition.

Financial Summary

(in thousands of $) Q1 2021 Q1 2020 % Change Q4 2020 % Change
           
Total operating revenues 125,827 122,559 3% 118,684 6%
Adjusted EBITDA 77,612 76,208 2% 78,031 (1)%
Net income/(loss) attributable to Golar LNG Ltd 25,364 (104,247) 124% 8,126 212%
Golar’s share of contractual net debt1 2,062,580    2,202,108 (6)% 2,065,826 —%
             

Q1 highlights and recent events

Financial:

  • Net income of $25.4 million for the quarter.
  • Adjusted EBITDA of $77.6 million, in line with Q4.
  • Entered into merger agreements for the sale our interest in both Hygo and GMLP to NFE. Upon closing on April 15, Golar received a total of $131 million in cash and 18.6 million Class A shares in NFE in combined merger consideration.
  • 1.2 million Golar shares bought back and held as treasury shares at a cost of $13.7 million.
  • 18.6 million Class A NFE shares valued at $780 million as of May 19, 2021, the equivalent of $7.08 per Golar LNG share.
  • $45 million drawn down against FLNG Gimi debt facility.  Total of $345 million drawn down as at March 31, 2021. A further $65 million drawn in early April.
  • Agreed a one-off debt payment of $60 million spread evenly across four LNG carriers and an accelerated lease profile resulting in cashflow net savings of $42 million and a total reduction to Golar’s remaining debt principal of $102 million.
  • Published comprehensive ESG report including audited emissions data and ambitious performance targets.

Shipping:

  • Q1 2021 average daily Time Charter Equivalent (“TCE”)1 earnings of $61,700 for the fleet, in line with both expectations and the TCE1 achieved for Q1 2020.
  • The TFDE1 TCE1 for the quarter was $65,100.
  • Utilization at 97%, up on the 77% achieved in Q4 2020 and the 94% realized in Q1 2020.
  • Revenue backlog1 of $187 million as at March 31, 2021.

FLNG:

  • FLNG Hilli Episeyo (“Hilli”) currently offloading 56th cargo, with 100% commercial uptime maintained.
  • Executed all remaining documentation required to remove the cap on gas reserves available for liquefaction by the Hilli, enable production above the current contract capacity, and advanced discussions on additional production by Hilli anticipated to start-up in Q1 2022.
  • FLNG Gimi conversion project 69% technically complete – on track and on budget. Nine million man-hours have now been worked, with around 2,400-yard workers currently allocated to the conversion on a daily basis. The vessels fifth and final drydock that has seen all remaining sponson blocks attached to the vessel is on schedule to complete at the end of Q2.
  • Progressing engineering work on a smaller, cheaper, and faster delivering Mark II FLNG design, in addition to our larger Mark III newbuild solution and assisting NFE with their FAST LNG jack-up designs.
  • Renewed focus on growth prospects with an emphasis on potential gas acquisitions for integrated FLNG projects.

Outlook

LNG Shipping:

Based on fixtures to date and inclusive of an upward adjustment for loss of hire revenue expected in respect of an ongoing claim for one of the vessels, Golar currently expects a Q2 TFDE1 TCE1 of around $50,500 per day. The market outlook for shipping is improving on firming underlying LNG demand and higher prices. Ton miles are increasing, the likelihood of any summer 2021 cargo cancellations has been reduced, charterers seeking spot tonnage are facing competition from those looking for term charters, all of which are improving the rate outlook. Tighter emissions regulations expected from 2023 may also require slower steaming for a substantial portion of the existing fleet. The market strength can be illustrated by our recent fixture of a 1-year time charter at a level of return not seen in the LNG market since 2010/2011.

FLNG:

Golar will pursue opportunities to use its FLNG technology and unrivalled operational experience to increase its upstream exposure. Focus will be on investments into stranded gas assets or partnering with companies that have associated gas that can be liquefied using existing FLNG assets or a quick delivering, smaller and lower cost alternative. The target will be to enter into LNG off-take agreements sufficient to support financing requirements and retain remaining production for merchant sales. We will continue to pursue pure tolling projects with oil majors where the return is attractive. Our FLNG solutions out-compete almost all onshore facilities in terms of cost per ton, schedule, and carbon footprint.

On Hilli, dialogue with Perenco and SNH to increase throughput continues. Although drilling has not yet commenced, current plans to bring on incremental production from Q1 2022 remain likely. Golar has an economic interest in around 87% of any incremental earnings from increased throughput of train 3. In addition to the train 3 discussions, Hilli is expected to generate Brent Oil linked cash flows, in which Golar has an 89% economic interest, from Q2 2021. The contractual Brent Oil linked component of Hilli’s currently contracted production generates incremental cashflows equivalent to approximately $3.0 million per annum for every dollar the Brent Oil price is above $60/barrel, up to an agreed but undisclosed ceiling.

Our FLNG segment has a contract earnings backlog1 of $3.4 billion (Golar’s share), an unparalleled operational record and attractive growth prospects. In order to capture hidden value in this segment and to potentially accelerate FLNG growth projects we will consider partnerships at either a project, asset or business level.

Corporate:

Closing the sales of Hygo and GMLP to NFE represent significant steps toward simplifying the group structure, crystallizing value, and strengthening the balance sheet. With $149.9 million of unrestricted cash on hand as at March 31, 2021 and $130.8 million of cash proceeds subsequently received from the sales of Hygo and GMLP on April 15, Golar’s balance sheet has been materially strengthened. Golar is now well positioned to meet its existing capital expenditure commitments and to fund attractive investment propositions, including continuation of its share buyback program.

The 18.6 million NFE shares valued at $780 million based on the closing price on May 19 create additional optionality. We see significant potential for the NFE business case driven by their strong growth, track record, and the solid platform NFE has built and acquired through the Hygo and GMLP acquisitions. Subject to the relative share prices of NFE and Golar, near-term growth initiatives, and the absolute share price of Golar, we intend to use the NFE shares for a combination of:

  1. Debt optimization, including refinancing of the convertible bond;
  2. Fund growth projects;
  3. Return to Golar shareholders either by way of direct distribution or by way of a tendered exchange for Golar shares.

In terms of financial reporting, a gain on disposal1 of our equity investments in GMLP and Hygo will be recognized on April 15, 2021. The estimated book profit on the disposals is expected to be in excess of $650 million as of this date. Earnings from these two affiliates, previously impacted by BRL/USD FX changes, will cease to be recognized in the statement of operations from April 15, and our investments in them, classified as ‘held for sale’ on March 31, 2021, will be removed from the balance sheet. Thereafter, while NFE shares continue to be held and dividends declared, dividend income will be recorded in the statement of operations, as will mark-to-market changes in the value of the NFE shares held.

 Financial Review

Business Performance:

  2021 2020
  Jan-Mar Oct-Dec
(in thousands of $) Shipping FLNG Corporate and other Total Shipping FLNG Corporate and other Total
Total operating revenues 62,866    54,397    8,564    125,827    50,727    62,489    5,468    118,684   
Vessel operating expenses (15,901)   (12,301)   (2,499)   (30,701)   (14,629)   (11,677)   89    (26,217)  
Voyage, charterhire & commission expenses (7,317)   (150)   (16)   (7,483)   (5,792)   —    —    (5,792)  
Administrative expenses (136)   (143)   (8,119)   (8,398)   (795)   (871)   (6,921)   (8,587)  
Project development expenses —    —    (1,633)   (1,633)   (8)   (1,363)   (1,416)   (2,787)  
Other operating income —    —    —    —    2,730    —    —    2,730   
Adjusted EBITDA 39,512    41,803    (3,703)   77,612    32,233    48,578    (2,780)   78,031   

  2020
  Jan-Mar
(in thousands of $) Shipping FLNG Corporate and other Total
Total operating revenues 62,985    54,524    5,050    122,559   
Vessel operating expenses (16,503)   (13,892)   162    (30,233)  
Voyage, charterhire & commission expenses (4,827)   —    —    (4,827)  
Administrative expenses (460)   (310)   (9,371)   (10,141)  
Project development expenses (13)   (1,132)   (2,544)   (3,689)  
Realized gains on oil derivative instrument(1) —    2,539    —    2,539   
Adjusted EBITDA 41,182    41,729    (6,703)   76,208   

(1) The line item “Realized and unrealized gain /(loss) on oil derivative instrument” in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) relating to income from the Hilli Liquefaction Tolling Agreement is split into, “Realized gains on oil derivative instrument” and “Unrealized gain/(loss) on oil derivative instrument”. The unrealized component represents a mark-to-market gain of $10.6 million (December 31, 2020: $5.7 million loss and March 31, 2020: $27.8 million loss) on the oil embedded derivative, which represents the estimate of expected receipts under the remainder of the Brent oil linked clause of the Hilli Liquefaction Tolling Agreement. The realized component amounts to $nil (December 31, 2020: $nil and March 31, 2020: $2.5 million gain) and represents the income in relation to the Hilli Liquefaction Tolling Agreement receivable in cash.

Golar reports today Q1 Adjusted EBITDA of $77.6 million compared to $78.0 million in Q4.

Total operating revenues increased from $118.7 million in Q4 to $125.8 million in Q1, partially mitigated by an increase in voyage, charter hire and commission expenses, from $5.8 million in Q4 to $7.5 million in Q1. Of the $7.1 million increase in total operating revenues, $12.1 million was attributable to an improved shipping performance. Partially offsetting this is reduced revenue from FLNG. Revenue from Hilli reverted to normalized levels in Q1 following the billing of 2019-2020 overproduction in Q4.

Revenue from shipping, net of voyage, charterhire and commission expenses was $55.5 million and increased by $10.6 million from $44.9 million in Q4. The quarter began with quoted TFDE1 carrier headline spot rates at around $160,000 per day and ended with rates at around $33,000 per day, in line with seasonal patterns. Full fleet TCE1 earnings increased from $48,800 in Q4 2020 to $61,700 in Q1 2021, in line with both prior guidance and Q1 2020.

Operating revenues from the Hilli, including base tolling fees and amortization of pre-acceptance amounts recognized, decreased from $62.5 million in Q4 to $54.4 million in Q1 as expected given the billing of 2019 and 2020 overproduction of $8.0 million in Q4. Any potential overproduction for 2021 will be billed in January 2022 and recognized in Q4, 2021.

A full quarter’s costs in respect of the FSRU LNG Croatia, for which Golar receives management fee compensation, together with unscheduled repairs of the FSRU Golar Tundra contributed to a $4.5 million increase in vessel operating expenses from $26.2 million in Q4 to $30.7 million in Q1. Administrative and project development expenses decreased $0.2 million and $1.2 million to $8.4 million and $1.6 million respectively. 

The mark-to-market fair value of the Hilli Brent oil link derivative asset increased by $10.6 million during the quarter, with a corresponding unrealized gain of the same amount recognized in the income statement. The fair value increase was driven by an upward movement in the expected future market price for Brent Oil. The spot price for Brent Oil increased from $51.80 per barrel on December 31, 2020 to $63.54 on March 31, 2021.

Depreciation and amortization, at $26.5 million was in line with the prior quarter.

Net Income Summary:

  2021 2020
(in thousands of $) Jan-Mar Oct-Dec
Adjusted EBITDA 77,612    78,031   
Depreciation and amortization (26,506)   (26,826)  
Unrealized gain/(loss) on oil derivative instrument 10,600    (5,700)  
Other non-operating income —    5,682   
Interest income 34    140   
Interest expense (14,546)   (15,217)  
Gains on derivative instruments 23,351    2,120   
Other financial items, net (310)   (3,538)  
Income taxes (257)   (383)  
Equity in net losses of affiliates (682)   (148)  
Equity in net (losses)/earnings of affiliates from discontinued operations (6,192)   4,481   
Net income attributable to non-controlling interests (37,740)   (30,516)  
Net income attributable to Golar LNG Limited 25,364    8,126   

In Q1 the group generated $25.4 million of net income, compared to Q4 net income of $8.1 million. Key items contributing to this are:

  • A $23.4 million Q1 gain on derivative instruments compared to a $2.1 million gain in Q4, mainly due to an increase in LIBOR rates and the impact this has on the Company’s fixed interest rate swaps.
  • The $6.2 million of equity in net losses of affiliates from discontinued operations primarily comprises the following:
    • $12.8 million net loss in respect of Golar’s 50% share in Hygo; and
    • $6.6 million net income in respect of Golar’s 32% share in GMLP.

Net losses attributable to non-controlling interests relate to the Hilli, the Gimi and the finance lease lessor VIEs.

Financing and Liquidity:

Our cash position as at March 31, 2021 was $298.9 million. This was made up of $149.9 million of unrestricted cash and $149.0 million of restricted cash. Restricted cash includes $54.1 million relating to lessor-owned VIEs and $75.9 million relating to the Hilli Letter of Credit, of which $15.2 million has been classified as short-term and is expected to be released to free cash in June.

After closing the sale of Hygo to NFE in April, our interest in NFE, valued at $780 million as of market close on May 19, replaces our interest in Hygo as security for the $100 million revolving credit facility.

Golar has agreed to make certain amendments to its sale and leaseback arrangements for four of its LNG carriers, the Golar Ice, Golar Kelvin, Golar Glacier and Golar Snow. These amendments include a prepayment of $60.0 million in July 2021, evenly split, across the four sale and leaseback facilities, increased daily debt service and a resulting accelerated lease profile on the Golar Ice and Golar Kelvin, and an obligation to repurchase the Golar Glacier and Golar Snow in April 2023. As a result of these changes we have agreed with the lease counterpart a net saving to Golar of a total of $42 million in combination of reduced remaining debt principal and remaining charter hire due under the remaining sale leaseback period.

Notable cash movements expected in Q2 2021 are summarized as follows:

(in millions of $)  
Opening unrestricted cash balance 149.9   
Cash merger consideration – Hygo transaction 50.0   
Cash merger consideration – Golar Partners transaction 80.8   
Golar’s share of expected Gimi CAPEX net of drawdowns (61.0)  
Repurchase of 1.2 million shares under the share buyback program (13.7)  
Release of Hilli LC 15.2   
Total 221.2

Inclusive of $10.5 million of capitalized interest, $44.6 million was invested in FLNG Gimi during the quarter, taking the total Gimi asset under development balance as at March 31, 2021 to $702.8 million. Of this, $345.0 million had been drawn against the $700 million debt facility. Both the investment and debt drawn to date are reported on a 100% basis. Based on cash spent as at March 31, 2021, Golar’s expected share of contributions to remaining conversion costs up to the point that commissioning hire becomes receivable in 2023 is approximately $164 million.

Included within the $1,354.9 million current portion of long-term debt and short-term debt as at March 31, is the December 2021 maturing $100.0 million credit facility, $387.7 million in respect of the February 2022 maturing convertible bond, and $851.9 million relating to lessor-owned VIE subsidiaries that Golar is required to consolidate in connection with nine sale and leaseback financed vessels, including the Hilli.

Corporate and Other Matters:

As at March 31, 2021, there were 110.1 million shares outstanding. There were also 1.7 million outstanding stock options with an average price of $23.33 and 0.7 million unvested restricted stock units awarded. Subsequent to the quarter end, 1.2 million shares were repurchased at a cost of $13.7 million. Of the initial $50 million approved share buyback scheme, $36.3 million remains available for further repurchases, which are considered attractive at current price levels. 

On April 12, 2021 Iain Ross resigned from his position as Chief Executive Officer. Karl Fredrik Staubo has been appointed to replace Iain and assumed his role as CEO on May 13, 2021. Eduardo Maranhao, formerly CFO of Hygo, has been appointed to replace Karl as CFO.

Golar has also published its ESG report. Containing industry leading levels of disclosure, this report includes audited emissions data and long-term measurable reporting targets that will further aid Golar in fulfilling its commitment to be at the forefront of delivering LNG as an alternative to more emission-intensive fossil fuels.

Non-GAAP measures

In addition to disclosing financial results in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (US GAAP), this earnings release and the associated investor presentation contains references to the non-GAAP financial measures which are included in the table below. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with useful supplemental information about the financial performance of our business, enable comparison of financial results between periods where certain items may vary independent of business performance, and allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management in operating our business and measuring our performance.

These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP, and the financial results calculated in accordance with GAAP. Non-GAAP measures are not uniformly defined by all companies, and may not be comparable with similarly titled measures and disclosures used by other companies. The reconciliations from these results should be carefully evaluated.

Non-GAAP measure Closest equivalent US GAAP measure Adjustments to reconcile to primary financial statements prepared under US GAAP Rationale for adjustments
Performance measures

Average daily TCE 
Total Operating revenues -Liquefaction services revenue

 

-Vessel and other management fees

 

-Voyage and commission expenses

 

The above total is then divided by calendar days less scheduled off-hire days, which is also otherwise known as total operating days of the fleet..

Measure of the average daily net revenue performance of a vessel.

 

Standard shipping industry performance measure used primarily to compare period-to-period changes in the vessel’s net revenue performance despite changes in the mix of charter types (i.e. spot charters, time charters and bareboat charters) under which the vessel may be employed between the periods.

 

Assists management in making decisions regarding the deployment and utilization of its fleet and in evaluating financial performance.

 

Liquidity measures

Contractual net debt
Net debt based on GAAP measures:

 

 Total debt (current and non-current), net of deferred finance charges

 

– Cash and cash equivalents

 

– Restricted cash and short-term deposits (current and non-current)

Net debt based on GAAP measures
+ Restricted cash and short-term deposits (current and non-current)
+ VIE consolidation adjustment
+ Deferred finance charges
We consolidate a number of lessor VIEs for our sale and leaseback facilities. This means that on consolidation, our contractual debt is eliminated and replaced with the lessor VIEs’ debt.

 

Contractual net debt represents our debt obligations under our various financing arrangements before consolidating the lessor VIEs net of free cash.

 

Management believe that these adjustments enable investors and users of our financial statements  to assess our liquidity based on our underlying contractual obligations and aids comparability with our competitors.

 


Contractual debt
Total debt (current and non-current), net of deferred finance charges + VIE Consolidation Adjustment
+ Deferred Finance Charges
We consolidate a number of lessor VIEs for our sale and leaseback facilities. This means that on consolidation, our contractual debt is eliminated and replaced with the lessor VIEs’ debt.

 

Contractual debt represents our debt obligations under our various financing arrangements before consolidating the lessor VIEs.

 

The measure enables investors and users of our financial statements to assess our liquidity and the split of our debt (current and non-current) based on our underlying contractual obligations. Furthermore, it aids comparability with competitors.

 

Reconciliations – Performance Measures (Average Daily TCE Rate)

  2021 2020 2020
(in thousands of $) Jan-Mar Oct-Dec(1) Jan-Mar
Total operating revenues 125,827    118,684    122,559   
Less: Liquefaction services revenue (54,397)   (62,489)   (54,524)  
Less: Vessel and other management fees (8,564)   (5,468)   (5,050)  
Time and voyage charter revenues 62,866    50,727    62,985   
Less: Voyage and commission expenses (7,358)   (5,792)   (4,827)  
  55,508    44,935    58,158   
Calendar days less scheduled off-hire days 900    920    940   
Average daily TCE rate (to the closest $100) 61,700    48,800    61,900   
       
Less: Steam LNG carrier time and voyage charter revenues (2,841)   (2,851)   (5,124)  
Add: Steam LNG carrier voyage and commission expenses 56    —    1,531   
  52,723    42,084    54,565   
Less: Steam LNG carrier calendar days less scheduled off-hire days (90)   (92)   (112)  
Net calendar days less scheduled off-hire 810    828    828   
Average daily TCE rate for TFDE fleet (to the closest $100) 65,100    50,800    65,900   

(1) The adjusted average daily TCE and adjusted fleet utilization for the period from October 1 to December 31, 2020, had we included the $2.7 million loss of hire insurance claim from Golar Ice, which is presented within Other operating income in the condensed consolidated statements of income/(loss), would have been $51,800 and 82% respectively.

Reconciliations – Liquidity Measures (Contractual Net Debt)

(in thousands of $) March 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 March 31, 2020
Net debt as calculated by GAAP      
Total debt (current and non-current) net of deferred finance charges 2,373,882    2,350,782    2,557,316   
Less      
Cash and cash equivalents (149,936)   (127,691)   (130,976)  
Restricted cash and short-term deposits – current and non-current portion (148,959)   (163,181)   (172,380)  
Net debt as calculated by GAAP 2,074,987    2,059,910    2,253,960   
VIE consolidation adjustment 295,466    293,236    206,584   
Restricted cash and short-term deposits – current and non-current portion 148,959    163,181    172,380   
Deferred finance charges 27,668    28,749    32,034   
Total Contractual Net Debt 2,547,080    2,545,076    2,664,958   
Less: Golar Partners’ share of the Hilli contractual debt (381,000)   (389,250)   (395,350)  
Less: Keppel’s share of the Gimi debt (103,500)   (90,000)   (67,500)  
GLNG’s share of Contractual Net Debt 2,062,580    2,065,826    2,202,108   

Reconciliations – Liquidity Measures (Contractual Debt)

(in thousands of $) March 31, 2021 December 31, 2020 March 31, 2020
Total debt (current and non-current) net of deferred finance charges 2,373,882    2,350,782    2,557,316   
VIE consolidation adjustments 295,466    293,236    206,584   
Deferred finance charges 27,668    28,749    32,034   
Total Contractual Debt 2,697,016    2,672,767    2,795,934   
Less: Golar Partners’ share of the Hilli contractual debt (381,000)   (389,250)   (414,000)  
Less: Keppel’s share of the Gimi debt (103,500)   (90,000)   (67,500)  
GLNG’s share of Contractual Debt 2,212,516    2,193,517    2,314,434   

Please see Appendix A for a capital repayment profile for Golar’s contractual debt.

Segment Information

In our 2020 Annual Report, we changed the way in which we report and measure our reportable segments. The main driver of the change is the alignment of presentation and contents of financial information provided to our chief operating decision maker (our Board of Directors), required to allocate resources, evaluate and manage both our standalone operating segments and our overall business performance. The key impacts are our segments’ profit measure is based on Adjusted EBITDA and across our four reportable segments; Shipping, FLNG, Power and Corporate and others. Refer to note 6 to our consolidated financial statements filed with our 2020 Annual Report, for additional details.

In January 2021, following the board of directors’ approvals of the GMLP and Hygo mergers with NFE, we determined that our share of the net earnings/(losses) in Golar Partners and Hygo and the respective carrying values of our investments have to be presented as profit/(loss) from discontinued operations and assets held for sale, respectively. Consequently, for the three months ended March 31, 2021, we ceased to consider Power as a reportable segment. Management has therefore concluded that we provide and operate three distinct reportable segments as follows:


  • Shipping
    – This segment is based on the business activities of the transportation of LNG carriers. We operate and subsequently charter out LNG carriers on fixed terms to customers.

  • FLNG
    – This segment is based on the business activities of FLNG vessels or projects. We convert LNG carriers into FLNG vessels and subsequently charter them out to customers. We currently have one operational FLNG, the Hilli, one undergoing conversion into a FLNG, the Gimi and one LNG carrier earmarked for conversion, the Gandria.

  • Corporate and other
    –  This segment is based on the business activities of vessel management and administrative services and our corporate overhead costs.
  Q1 2021
(in thousands of $) Shipping FLNG Corporate and other Total
Total operating revenues 62,866    54,397    8,564    125,827   
Vessel operating expenses (15,901)   (12,301)   (2,499)   (30,701)  
Voyage, charterhire & commission expenses (7,317)   (150)   (16)   (7,483)  
Administrative expenses (136)   (143)   (8,119)   (8,398)  
Project development expenses —    —    (1,633)   (1,633)  
Adjusted EBITDA 39,512    41,803    (3,703)   77,612   

  Q4 2020
(in thousands of $) Shipping FLNG Corporate and other Total
Total operating revenues 50,727    62,489    5,468    118,684   
Vessel operating expenses (14,629)   (11,677)   89    (26,217)  
Voyage, charterhire & commission expenses (5,792)   —    —    (5,792)  
Administrative expenses (795)   (871)   (6,921)   (8,587)  
Project development expenses (8)   (1,363)   (1,416)   (2,787)  
Other operating income 2,730    —    —    2,730   
Adjusted EBITDA 32,233    48,578    (2,780)   78,031   

  Q1 2020
(in thousands of $) Shipping FLNG Corporate and other Total
Total operating revenues 62,985    54,524    5,050    122,559   
Vessel operating expenses (16,503)   (13,892)   162    (30,233)  
Voyage, charterhire & commission expenses (4,827)   —    —    (4,827)  
Administrative expenses (460)   (310)   (9,371)   (10,141)  
Project development expenses (13)   (1,132)   (2,544)   (3,689)  
Realized gains on oil derivative instrument —    2,539    —    2,539   
Adjusted EBITDA 41,182    41,729    (6,703)   76,208   

Non-US GAAP Measures Used in Forecasting

Revenue Backlog: Revenue backlog is defined as the minimum contracted daily charter rate for each vessel multiplied by the number of scheduled hire days for the remaining contract term. Revenue backlog is not intended to represent EBITDA or future cashflows that will be generated from these contracts. This measure should be seen as a supplement and not a substitute for our US GAAP measures of performance.

Earnings Backlog: Earnings backlog represents the share of contracted fee income for executed contracts less forecasted operating expenses for these contracts. In calculating forecasted operating expenditure, management has assumed that where there is an Operating Services Agreement the amount receivable under the services agreement will cover the associated operating costs, therefore revenue from operating services agreements are excluded. For contracts, which do not have a separate Operating Services Agreement management has made an assumption about operating costs based on the current run rate. The only material application of this methodology was to the Hilli Earnings backlog where we assumed operating costs of approximately $144kpd.

Illustrative gain on disposals: Illustrative gains on disposals represents the accounting gain on the sale of the Partnership and Hygo to NFE. In calculating the illustrative gain on disposals, management had used NFE share price as of April 15, 2021 less the estimated carrying value of our investment in affiliates as of April 15, 2021 for the Partnership and Hygo. The carrying value of our equity investments is subject to change based on the underlying performance of these entities from January 1, 2021 to April 15, 2021.

Definitions

TFDE: Tri-fuel Diesel Electric engine
FSRU:
Floating Storage Regasification Unit
JKM: Japan Korea Marker

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements (as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) which reflects management’s current expectations, estimates and projections about its operations. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, that address activities and events that will, should, could or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Words such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “potential,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “expect,” “may,” “could,” “would,” “predict,” “propose,” “continue,” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control and are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Unless legally required, Golar undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are:

  • our inability and that of our counterparty to meet our respective obligations under the Lease and Operate Agreement entered into in connection with the BP Greater Tortue / Ahmeyim Project (“Gimi GTA Project”);
  • continuing uncertainty resulting from potential future claims from our counterparties of purported force majeure under contractual arrangements, including but not limited to our construction projects (including the Gimi GTA Project) and other contracts to which we are a party;
  • claims made or losses incurred in connection with our continuing obligations with regard to Hygo Energy Transition Ltd (“Hygo”) and Golar LNG Partners LP (“Golar Partners”);
  • the ability of Hygo, Golar Partners and New Fortress Energy, Inc. (“NFE”) to meet their respective obligations to us, including indemnification obligations;
  • challenges by authorities to the tax benefits we previously obtained under certain of our leasing agreements;
  • changes in our ability to retrofit vessels as floating storage and regasification units (“FSRUs”) or floating liquefaction natural gas vessels (“FLNGs”) and in our ability to obtain financing for such conversions on acceptable terms or at all;
  • changes in our ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms or at all;
  • the length and severity of outbreaks of pandemics, including the recent worldwide outbreak of the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) and its impact on demand for liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) and natural gas, the timing of completion of our conversion projects, the operations of our charterers, our global operations and our business in general;
  • failure of our contract counterparties to comply with their agreements with us or other key project stakeholders;
  • changes in LNG carrier, FSRU, or FLNG including charter rates, vessel values or technological advancements;
  • our vessel values and any future impairment charges we may incur;
  • our ability to close potential future sales of additional equity interests in our vessels, including the Hilli (“Hilli”) and FLNG Gimi on a timely basis or at all;
  • our ability to contract the full utilization of the Hilli or other vessels;
  • changes in the supply of or demand for LNG carriers, FSRUs or FLNGs;
  • a material decline or prolonged weakness in rates for LNG carriers, FSRUs or FLNGs;
  • changes in the performance of the pool in which certain of our vessels operate;
  • changes in trading patterns that affect the opportunities for the profitable operation of LNG carriers, FSRUs or FLNGs;
  • changes in the supply of or demand for LNG or LNG carried by sea;
  • continuing volatility of commodity prices;
  • changes in the supply of or demand for natural gas generally or in particular regions;
  • changes in our relationships with our counterparties, including our major chartering parties;
  • changes in our relationship with our affiliates and the sustainability of any distributions they pay to us;
  • a decline or continuing weakness in the global financial markets;
  • changes in general domestic and international political conditions, particularly where we operate;
  • changes in the availability of vessels to purchase and in the time it takes to construct new vessels;
  • failure of shipyards to comply with delivery schedules or performance specifications on a timely basis or at all;
  • changes to rules and regulations applicable to LNG carriers, FSRUs, FLNGs or other parts of the LNG supply chain;
  • our inability to achieve successful utilization of our fleet or inability to expand beyond the carriage of LNG and provision of FSRU and FLNGs, particularly through our innovative FLNG strategy;
  • actions taken by regulatory authorities that may prohibit the access of LNG carriers, FSRUs and FLNGs to various ports;
  • increases in costs, including, among other things, wages, insurance, provisions, repairs and maintenance; and
  • other factors listed from time to time in registration statements, reports or other materials that we have filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the Commission, including our most recent annual report on Form 20-F.

As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on any forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by law.

May 20, 2021
The Board of Directors
Golar LNG Limited
Hamilton, Bermuda
Investor Questions: +44 207 063 7900
Karl Fredrik Staubo – CEO
Eduardo Maranhao – CFO
Stuart Buchanan – Head of Investor Relations

Attachment



AVCtechnologies Gifts Cybersecurity and Technology Support to Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU)

Collaborative initiative launched to modernize IT infrastructures and lessen the digital divide

ATLANTA, May 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Virtual Cloud Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVCT) (AVCtechnologies), a leading cloud communications and IT service provider, announced today that in the first of several years of a joint initiative it will gift cybersecurity services and technology support as part of a collaborative effort to enable historically black colleges & universities (HBCU) to modernize their IT infrastructures.

As part of the project coordinated by the Student Freedom Initiative (SFI), a nonprofit dedicated to enabling the social and economic mobility of students at HBCUs, AVCtechnologies will implement multiple Cisco security products, and provide consulting, logistics, engineering implementations, and long-term management services initially to nine, with a desire to implement at all of the 107 HBCUs across the United States.

“The cybersecurity considerations and requirements facing educational institutions are great and have a significant impact on Title IV funding,” said Xavier Williams, CEO, AVCtechnologies. “We understand the digital divide these institutions need to overcome. And as technology providers, we have seen firsthand how it has been exacerbated by COVID-19 and the abrupt displacement of unplanned, unsecure remote environments. This initiative provides companies such as AVCtechnologies the ability to address these challenges head on.”

AVCtechnologies will leverage technological expertise, solutions, and financial resources to contribute toward adherence to cybersecurity standards and put controls in place through NIST 800-171 r2 assessments at the participating institutions, including Xavier University of Louisiana and Prairie View A&M University.

“We have supported the technology initiatives of schools, colleges, and universities for decades,” said Worth Davis, president of solution technology, AVCtechnologies. “Adapting and transforming legacy infrastructures, systems, and processes to meet the growing and changing education landscape requires trust and expertise; our team offers both. We are a Cisco Gold Partner with three master certifications and recognized as Cisco’s breakout partner of the year and AT&T’s Cybersecurity Growth Partner of the Year.”

Title IV funding is awarded to institutions of higher education that meet certain criteria, including the ability to provide students with access to degree programs that prepare them for employment. To do so, schools need to ensure their own infrastructure is capable of supporting the needs of their students.

“This initiative is an imperative for HBCUs who receive significant need-based funding,” said Keith B. Shoates, Chief Operating Officer, SFI. “SFI is playing a key role as the facilitator to protect Personally Identifiable Information in accordance with recent Department of Education, Federal Student Aid (FSA) requirements and modernize the IT infrastructure for HBCUs. Equally important, this partnership will provide increased operational resiliency, efficiency and reduced operating costs, which is foundational to improving the institutions and student outcomes. We are pleased to have a technology leader like AVCtechnologies partnering with us in this initiative.”

To learn more about AVCtechnologies offerings and solutions, please visit: https://www.avctechnologies.com.

About American Virtual Cloud Technologies, Inc.

American Virtual Cloud Technologies, Inc. (“AVCT”; NASDAQ: AVCT) is a premier global IT solutions provider offering a comprehensive bundle of services including unified cloud communications, managed services, cybersecurity, and enhanced connectivity. Our mission is to provide global technology solutions with a superior customer experience. For more information, visit https://www.avctechnologies.com

Press

Jackie D’Andrea
Inkhouse, LLC
[email protected]

 



Gilat Awarded Over $4 Million in Orders for Support of Low Earth Orbit Constellation

PETAH TIKVA, Israel, May 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (Nasdaq: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, announced today that it received orders of over $4 million for support of gateways of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations.

Gilat’s subsidiary, Wavestream, was chosen as the vendor of choice to supply Gateway Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPAs) to a leading satellite operator to support the LEO constellation gateways. The orders were received as part of the previously announced contract.

Wavestream is proceeding according to plan with delivery of orders for its Gateway-Class PowerStream 160Ka SSPAs, designed specifically for networks using wide bandwidth uplinks and high order modulation schemes. Wavestream’s SSPAs were selected because of their best-in-class technical performance and their unmatched reliability in harsh environments, best addressing the stringent requirements of Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) constellations installed in remote locations.

“We are now manufacturing these units at an unprecedented production rate for Gateway-class SSPAs,” said Bob Huffman, Wavestream’s General Manager. “Our manufacturing capacity, product reliability, and experience with high-power Ka-Band SSPA technologies stand alone in the NGSO Gateway market.”

About Wavestream

Wavestream, a Gilat subsidiary is the industry leader in the design and manufacture of next generation satellite communications high power transceivers for In Flight Connectivity, Ground Mobility and Gateway markets. Since 2001, we provide system integrators with field-proven, high performance Ka, Ku and X band Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPAs), Block Upconverters (BUCs), Block Down Converters and Transceivers. We design, manufacture and repair our products in-house and have delivered over 40,000 systems in the past 15 years. Wavestream products provide high quality and reliability under the harshest environmental conditions and we are currently certified to ISO 9001:2008 and AS9100D standards. For further details please visit www.wavestream.com

About Gilat

Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With 30 years of experience, we design and manufacture cutting-edge ground segment equipment, and provide comprehensive solutions and end-to-end services, powered by our innovative technology. Delivering high value competitive solutions, our portfolio comprises of a cloud based VSAT network platform, high-speed modems, high performance on-the-move antennas and high efficiency, high power Solid State Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC).

Gilat’s comprehensive solutions support multiple applications with a full portfolio of products to address key applications including broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, in-flight connectivity, maritime, trains, defense and public safety, all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. Gilat controlling shareholders are the FIMI Private Equity Funds. For more information, please visit: www.gilat.com

Certain statements made herein
that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, risks associated with the outbreak and global spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic; changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel. For additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties associated with Gilat’s business, reference is made to Gilat’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.

Contact:

Gilat Satellite Networks
Doreet Oren, Director Corporate Communications
[email protected]

GK Investor and Public Relations
Ehud Helft, Managing Partner
[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/76ff336a-14c0-474f-abd6-ad23246b4919