Tennant Company Appoints Fay West as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Tennant Company Appoints Fay West as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Tennant Company (“Tennant”) (NYSE: TNC), a world leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of solutions that help create a cleaner, safer, healthier world, today announced it has appointed Fay West as the Company’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective April 15. Ms. West was previously Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of SunCoke Energy, Inc. West replaces Thomas Paulson, who has served as interim CFO since January 2021.

“Fay is an accomplished finance executive with extensive experience in accounting, financial reporting and analysis and controls, and demonstrated leadership skills in implementing continuous improvements in business systems and processes,” said Dave Huml, Tennant Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer.

“We welcome Fay as the newest member of Tennant’s senior management team and look forward to working with her in executing our enterprise strategy and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead. We’ve made meaningful improvements to our operating model in the past year and are in a strong position as global markets begin to recover. We’re excited to have Fay on our team as we continue on this trajectory,” said Huml.

Before joining SunCoke Energy, Inc., in 2011, West was Assistant Controller at United Continental Holdings, Inc. Prior to that role, she served in several leadership roles at PepsiAmericas, Inc., including Vice President of Accounting and Financial Reporting, and Director of Financial Reporting. Prior to joining PepsiAmericas, Inc., she was Vice President and Controller of GATX Rail Company. West is a certified public accountant and received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from DePaul University.

The Company has filed a Form 8-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which describes the material compensatory arrangements for West. As a material inducement to West commencing employment with Tennant, the Compensation Committee approved the grants to West of annual long-term incentive equity awards, as well as a one-time restricted stock unit award, all of which will be granted outside of Tennant’s shareholder-approved equity compensation plan in reliance on the employment inducement exemption under the NYSE’s Listed Company Manual Rule 303A.08. The annual long-term incentive awards will have a total grant date fair value of $848,000, comprised of 50% performance-based restricted stock units with a performance period from 2021-2023, 25% non-qualified stock options vesting ratably over three years and 25% restricted shares that cliff-vest after three years, consistent with comparable awards to Tennant’s other executive officers. The one-time restricted stock units will have a grant date fair value of $1.1 million and will vest as to 50% of the units on each of the first and second anniversaries of the date of grant. All of the equity awards will be subject to the terms of the standard forms of award agreements for executive officers and will be granted upon the commencement of West’s employment or the first date thereafter when Tennant’s stock trading window is open.

Company Profile

Founded in 1870, Tennant Company (TNC), headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a world leader in designing, manufacturing and marketing solutions that empower customers to achieve quality cleaning performance, reduce their environmental impact and help create a cleaner, safer, healthier world. Its products include equipment for maintaining surfaces in industrial, commercial and outdoor environments; detergent-free and other sustainable cleaning technologies; and cleaning tools and supplies. Tennant’s global field service network is the most extensive in the industry. Tennant Company had sales of $1.0 billion in 2020 and has approximately 4,300 employees. Tennant has manufacturing operations throughout the world and sells products directly in 15 countries and through distributors in more than 100 countries. For more information, visit www.tennantco.com and www.ipcworldwide.com. The Tennant Company logo and other trademarks designated with the symbol “®” are trademarks of Tennant Company registered in the United States and/or other countries.

INVESTOR CONTACT:

William Prate

Senior Director, Investor Relations

[email protected]

763-540-1547

KEYWORDS: Minnesota United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Commercial Building & Real Estate Construction & Property Other Manufacturing Engineering Chemicals/Plastics Other Construction & Property Manufacturing Residential Building & Real Estate

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Greystone and HAND Housing Partner to Bring Financing Solutions to BIPOC Developers in the Mid-Atlantic Region

HAND Members to Gain Exclusive Access to Greystone’s Industry-Leading Debt and Equity Platforms

NEW YORK and WASHINGTON, April 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Greystone, a leading national commercial real estate finance company, and Housing Association of Nonprofit Developers (HAND), the U.S. Capital Region’s premier member association advocating for affordable housing production and preservation, have launched Equity in Action, a partnership to increase access to working capital for real estate developers and investors in the Black, Indigenous, Person of Color (BIPOC) community. As part of an exclusive benefit to HAND, BIPOC developers will gain direct access to advisory and financing solutions for affordable housing construction, refinancing, recapitalization, and acquisition, including access to Greystone’s #1 ranked FHA lending platform.

Through education, engagement and regional advocacy, HAND builds the capacity of its cross-sector member collective to support the development of equitable communities for individuals and families at all income levels. As HAND’s first financing partner, Greystone will offer custom solutions for the creation and preservation of multifamily housing and community development projects, accelerating both opportunities and access for HAND’s membership base. Additional benefits to members include strategic CRE portfolio reviews, restructuring advisory services, and expertise on Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and bond financing solutions for affordable housing.

Mid-Atlantic Focus Addresses Immediate Regional Affordability Crisis

According to HAND’s recently-launched Housing Indicator Tool, the D.C. region created only 12% of the new affordable units that the Urban Institute says are needed by 2030 to meet demand.

“Right in D.C., and in surrounding Maryland and Virginia, the affordability crisis has been exacerbated by the pandemic and economic setbacks. Add to this that black and brown real estate developers are still met with the obstacle of basic access to the capital needed to execute their plans to revitalize communities,” said Heather Raspberry, Executive Director, HAND. “We are pleased to partner with Greystone to offer a membership benefit designed to increase opportunities for the BIPOC community as well as increase awareness and education of the options available to the institutional market.” 

“Greystone is executing on its commitment to help reduce barriers to accessing capital for communities of color and beyond, and we are hyper-focused on bringing the benefits of our debt and equity solutions to groups that need them most,” said Steve Rosenberg, founder and CEO of Greystone. “HAND’s membership is aligned with our own mission to preserve and create desperately-needed affordable housing, and we are thrilled to create a direct access point for them to benefit from finance and advisory services to help achieve their goals. We hope this partnership with HAND serves as a model to creating access to financing for other BIPOC commercial borrower communities nationwide.”

About Greystone

Greystone is a private national commercial real estate finance company with an established reputation as a leader in multifamily and healthcare finance, having ranked as a top FHA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac lender in these sectors. Loans are offered through Greystone Servicing Company LLC, Greystone Funding Company LLC and/or other Greystone affiliates. For more information, visit www.greystone.com.

About HAND

Founded in 1991, HAND is a nonprofit membership association comprised of over 450 organizations working across the private, public and nonprofit sectors to collaborate in the production and preservation of affordable housing in the Capital Region of Baltimore, Washington, and Richmond. Through education, engagement and regional advocacy, HAND builds the capacity of its diverse membership to support the development of sustainable communities for individuals and families at all income levels. Visit www.HandHousing.org to learn more about HAND’s efforts to build vibrant communities across the metropolitan region.

PRESS CONTACT:

Karen Marotta
Greystone
212-896-9149
[email protected]



Serving Small Businesses: 20-Year Corporate Banking Veteran to Expand Regions’ SBA Lending Focus

Serving Small Businesses: 20-Year Corporate Banking Veteran to Expand Regions’ SBA Lending Focus

Regions Bank adds Caroline Taylor to its Corporate Banking team as head of SBA Lending

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Regions Bank on Thursday announced Caroline Taylor has joined its Corporate Banking group as senior vice president and head of Small Business Administration (SBA) Lending.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210401005131/en/

Caroline Taylor (Photo: Business Wire)

Caroline Taylor (Photo: Business Wire)

Taylor brings extensive banking experience focused on meeting the financial needs of small businesses. Reporting to Timothy Monte, executive vice president and head of Credit Products for Regions, Taylor will be based in North Carolina while guiding services for Regions’ small-business clients across the South, Midwest and Texas.

“Caroline has a real passion for serving small businesses and helping them succeed. She is focused on building long-term relationships with clients centered on delivering outstanding service and customized financial insights,” said Monte. “She is recognized as a leader in the SBA world, and we know her experience and passion will benefit our current clients while also helping us reach new clients with SBA financial tools to help companies grow and thrive.”

Before joining Regions, Taylor served as national head of SBA Lending and as Small Business Credit Underwriting director at Capital One. There, she developed a high-performing lending team for portfolio management, underwriting, closing, and liquidation while spearheading daily operations focused on credit underwriting and portfolio management. Taylor’s leadership played a critical role in successfully establishing the SBA department, growing its volume by 20%, and growing its portfolio to over $300 million.

Previously, she served as SBA Private Business loan underwriter and assistant vice president at Wells Fargo. Taylor earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Philosophy of Law Concentration from North Carolina State University. Taylor is currently a board member for the National Association of Government Guaranteed Lenders (NAGGL), the trade organization for SBA 7(a) lending. She is a member of the Large Bank Committee and Technical Committee.

“The team at Regions has a clear focus on serving and empowering small businesses, and coming into this role, my focus is growing our SBA lending business while making our services even more scalable to the needs of a diverse range of clients,” Taylor said.

“Consider the incredible work that’s been done at Regions to connect tens of thousands of small businesses with Paycheck Protection Program funding from the SBA during the pandemic,” Taylor added. “That’s an illustration of our focus on supporting the companies that are the economic heartbeat of our communities. Now, we have an opportunity to take our service to the next level. From our branches to our digital services, we will consistently find more ways to go above and beyond to let a customer know, I’m here for you; We’re not just providing a service, but a relationship, and I am here for the long haul. It’s an exciting time for Regions and I look forward to continuing the growth of Regions’ SBA lending business.”

The U.S. Small Business Administration is committed to furthering the growth and development of small businesses. One of the ways it does this is by guaranteeing loans to small businesses made through participating financial institutions nationwide. Regions Bank is both an SBA Preferred Lender and one of America’s most experienced SBA lenders.

About Regions Financial Corporation

Regions Financial Corporation (NYSE:RF), with $147 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation’s largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest, and Texas, and through its subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates more than 1,300 banking offices and 2,000 ATMs. Regions Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Additional information about Regions and its full line of products and services can be found at www.regions.com.

Alicia Anger

205-264-4551

regions.doingmoretoday.com

Regions News on Twitter: @Regions News

KEYWORDS: United States North America Alabama

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Banking Professional Services Finance

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Caroline Taylor (Photo: Business Wire)

GrowlerWerks Launches uKeg Twist Hard Seltzer Maker on Kickstarter, Reaches Funding Goal in 6 Hours

Portland, Ore., April 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GrowlerWerks has done it again.

Yesterday, the craft beverage innovator and repeat crowdfunding success story took to Kickstarter to launch the uKeg Twist Hard Seltzer Maker—an easy-to-use product that lets people make hard seltzer on-the-fly and perfectly tailor it to their individual preferences. It took just 6 hours for the project to be 100% funded.

“The hard seltzer market is booming,” said GrowlerWerks founder and president Shawn Huff. “We wanted to enter the space but also put our unique spin on it. Everybody’s tastes are different, and craft beverage fans are creative, so we decided to give people full control over their seltzer.”

Unlike other brands that are churning out seltzer recipes they hope people will buy, the uKeg Twist lets consumers craft their own perfect seltzer by combining water with their favorite ingredients, such as booze, fresh fruit, and natural flavors. And they can make, transport, and dispense the final beverage all from one vessel.

“Our customers are always on-the-go,” said GrowlerWerks product engineer Evan Rege. “We developed a product that not only makes delicious hard seltzer but also has GrowlerWerks’ trademark convenience and portability.”

The uKeg Twist makes hard seltzer in seconds. The vessel has a high-pressure system that uses an 8g CO2 cartridge to quickly force carbonate liquid and turn it into fresh, fizzy seltzer. The double wall 18/8 stainless steel vacuum keeps the beverage cold all day and the two sizes—24 oz and 36 oz—easily fit in a bag so one can take them anywhere. The design gives people the option to sip through the foldable spout or dispense into a glass with the push of a button.

The uKeg Twist follows in the footsteps of GrowlerWerks’ previous successful Kickstarter campaigns: the uKeg carbonated growler and the uKeg Nitro cold brew coffee maker.

“Crowdfunding is alive and well—as long as you give consumers something they want and can deliver a quality product in the end,” said Huff. “We’ve proven we can do both and are excited to once again have the support of so many craft beverage enthusiasts as we bring the uKeg Twist to life.”

The Kickstarter campaign for the uKeg Twist runs through May 4, 2021. Reward levels offer early-bird pricing and product bundles that include CO2 gas cartridges and a 5-flavor seltzer sample pack. Backers are estimated to start receiving rewards in September 2021. The uKeg Twist is expected in retailers this fall, with an MSRP of $64.95 or $79.95, depending on the size.

For more information, visit http://uKegTwist.com            

About GrowlerWerks®

Founded in Portland, Ore. in 2014, GrowlerWerks is an innovator in the craft beverage industry. The uKeg pressurized growler changed the way craft beer is enjoyed by allowing beer enthusiasts to keep their favorite beverage fresh and carbonated for weeks. The uKeg Nitro is the first at-home nitro cold brew coffee maker and dispenser. GrowlerWerks’ products are distributed in the US, Canada, Australia and Western Europe.

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Kate Sheofsky
GrowlerWerks
503-360-3626
[email protected]

Digital Twin Consortium Announces Liaison with Global Mining Guidelines Group

Collaboration will benefit the mining industry and development of digital twin technologies

Boston, MA, April 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Digital Twin Consortium® and Global Mining Guidelines Group have entered into a liaison agreement to help solve mining industry challenges by enabling the development and adoption of digital twin technologies.

Both consortia have agreed to the following:

  • Identifying and sharing use cases and applications of digital twins in mining
  • Identifying and sharing best practices across natural resource industries
  • Collaborating on guidelines for the development and adoption of digital twin in mining
  • Identifying testbed opportunities and innovation platforms for collaboration on the development of prioritized digital twin use cases for case study analysis
  • Applying lessons from other industry sectors to mining and driving consistency across industries
  • Digital Twin Consortium will support the alignment of GMG workstreams such as Interoperability and Data Access and Usage; Cybersecurity; Asset Management; AI; Electric Mine; and Autonomous Mining
  • GMG work streams will support the alignment of Digital Twin Consortium’s workstreams such as Technology, Terminology, and Taxonomy; Security and Trustworthiness; Conceptual, Informational, Structural, and Behavioral Models; Enabling Technologies such as Simulation and AI

 “Mining is an increasingly technology-driven industry, and there are opportunities for improved processes and equipment, including digital twins and new mining practices for improved safety, automation, energy efficiency, environmental stewardship, and cost management,” said Dr. Prith Banerjee, Chief Technology Officer, Ansys, and Digital Twin Consortium Steering Committee member. “We look forward to working with Global Mining Guidelines to further the use of digital twins in the mining industry to improve processes and best practices.”

 “We are excited about our collaboration with Global Mining Guidelines Group,” said Dan Isaacs, Chief Technical Officer, Digital Twin Consortium. “Together, we will work together to bring innovative digital twin technologies to the mining industry.”

 “The mining industry has benefitted significantly from digital transformation initiatives to increase performance in real-time, enhance safety, and improve resource knowledge for better extraction and supply chain effectiveness,” said Heather Ednie, Managing Director, Global Mining Guidelines Group.“ As part of this transformation, digital twins are emerging as a critical topic.  In support of industry progress, GMG is pleased to work alongside Digital Twin Consortium to facilitate education, alignment and adoption of digital twin technologies within mining.”

Both consortia will exchange information through regular consultations, seminars, and more.

 About Global Mining Guidelines Group 

The Global Mining Guidelines Group (GMG) accelerates the implementation of innovative technologies into the mining industry by bringing together all mining stakeholders to create guidelines that respond to common challenges. Working Groups address topics such as interoperability, data access and usage, artificial intelligence, autonomous equipment, underground communication, battery-electric vehicles, and comminution efficiency in mining.

 


About Digital Twin Consortium

Digital Twin Consortium is The Authority in Digital Twin. It coalesces industry, government, and academia to drive consistency in vocabulary, architecture, security, and interoperability of digital twin technology. It advances the use of digital twin technology in many industries from aerospace to natural resources. Digital Twin Consortium is a program of Object Management Group.

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Karen Quatromoni
Digital Twin Consortium
978-855-0412
[email protected]

Rosemary Mantini
Global Mining Guidelines
[email protected]

Star Bulk Announces Availability of Its 2020 Annual Report on Form 20‐F

ATHENS, Greece, April 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Star Bulk Carriers Corp. (the “Company” or “Star Bulk”) (Nasdaq: SBLK), a global shipping company focusing on the transportation of dry bulk cargoes, today announced that the Company’s annual report on Form 20‐F (the “Annual Report”), which contains the Company’s audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2021. The Annual Report can be found on the Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website at http://www.starbulk.com.

About Star Bulk

Star Bulk is a global shipping company providing worldwide seaborne transportation solutions in the dry bulk sector. Star Bulk’s vessels transport major bulks, which include iron ore, minerals and grain, and minor bulks, which include bauxite, fertilizers and steel products. Star Bulk was incorporated in the Marshall Islands on December 13, 2006 and maintains executive offices in Athens, Oslo, New York, Limassol and Singapore. Its common stock trades on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “SBLK”. Star Bulk will operate on a fully delivered basis a fleet of 128 vessels, with an aggregate capacity of 14.1 million dwt, consisting of 17 Newcastlemax, 22 Capesize, 2 Mini Capesize, 7 Post Panamax, 41 Kamsarmax, 2 Panamax, 20 Ultramax and 17 Supramax vessels with carrying capacities between 52,425 dwt and 209,537 dwt.

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 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 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, examination by the Company’s management of historical operating trends, data contained in its records and other data available from third parties. Although the Company believes 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 the Company’s control, the Company cannot assure you that it will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections.

In addition to these important factors, other important factors that, in the Company’s view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include general dry bulk shipping market conditions, including fluctuations in charterhire rates and vessel values; the strength of world economies; the stability of Europe and the Euro; fluctuations in interest rates and foreign exchange rates; changes in demand in the dry bulk shipping industry, including the market for our vessels; changes in our operating expenses, including bunker prices, dry docking and insurance costs; 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; potential disruption of shipping routes due to accidents or political events; the availability of financing and refinancing; our ability to meet requirements for additional capital and financing to complete our newbuilding program and grow our business; the impact of the level of our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; vessel breakdowns and instances of off‐hire; risks associated with vessel construction; potential exposure or loss from investment in derivative instruments; potential conflicts of interest involving our Chief Executive Officer, his family and other members of our senior management and our ability to complete acquisition transactions as planned. Please see our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof, and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update any forward‐looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this communication.

Contacts

Company:

Simos Spyrou, Christos Begleris
Co ‐ Chief Financial Officers
Star Bulk Carriers Corp.
c/o Star Bulk Management Inc.
40 Ag. Konstantinou Av.
Maroussi 15124
Athens, Greece
Email: [email protected]
www.starbulk.com

Investor Relations / Financial Media:

Nicolas Bornozis
President
Capital Link, Inc.
230 Park Avenue, Suite 1536
New York, NY 10169
Tel. (212) 661‐7566
E‐mail: [email protected]
www.capitallink.com



Cabot Corporation Completes Major Air Emission Control Project at Franklin, Louisiana Site

Cabot Corporation Completes Major Air Emission Control Project at Franklin, Louisiana Site

Site successfully completed, commissioned, and started up $85 million project on schedule

BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Cabot Corporation (NYSE: CBT) announced the successful on time completion of a major air emissions control project at its carbon black manufacturing facility located in Franklin, Louisiana, USA.

Cabot has invested $85 million in emissions control technology that will result in improved air quality through the substantial elimination of NOX and SO2 emissions – over 20 tons of combined emissions eliminated each day. In addition, waste heat from Cabot’s plant is recovered and used to generate up to 50 megawatts of power, without creating any additional emissions.

“I am immensely proud of our project team, plant staff and contractors for completing this significant project on time despite numerous technical challenges, several named hurricanes, an unprecedented deep freeze event as well as the global COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, the fact that the team accomplished all of this while working over 150,000 hours without any recordable safety incidents demonstrates our incredible commitment to safety and excellence,” said Bart Kalkstein, President, Reinforcement Materials Segment, and President, Americas Region. “Our proven knowledge and experience implementing best-in-class emission control technologies at other sites in our network, combined with our team’s ability to quickly adapt to the changing environment enabled us to complete this project on schedule, ensuring cleaner air for the citizens of Louisiana and continuity of reliable, high quality supply to our valued customers throughout North America. We thank all those involved for their hard work, persistence, and flexibility to complete the job safely and on schedule during an extremely challenging time.”

“Cabot has a long history of leadership in the carbon black industry. Consistent with this leadership is our commitment to sustainability, acting responsibly for the planet and being a good corporate citizen,” continued Kalkstein. “The successful start-up of these emission control technologies will enable to us to further solidify and extend our leadership position in the carbon black industry while also ensuring that we remain a reliable, long-term partner to our customers.”

This announcement follows recent sustainability accolades including a platinum level rating in recognition of its sustainability efforts from EcoVadis and being named to “America’s Most Responsible Companies 2021” list by Newsweek for the second consecutive year.

For more information on Cabot’s commitment to safety, health and environmental excellence, visit cabotcorp.com/sustainability.

About Cabot Corporation

Cabot Corporation (NYSE: CBT) is a global specialty chemicals and performance materials company, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. The company is a leading provider of rubber and specialty carbons, activated carbon, inkjet colorants, masterbatches and conductive compounds, fumed silica and aerogel. For more information on Cabot, please visit the company’s website at cabotcorp.com.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in the press release regarding Cabot’s business that are not historical facts are forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Vanessa Craigie

Corporate Communications

(617) 342-6015

Steve Delahunt

Investor Relations

(617) 342-6255

KEYWORDS: United States North America Massachusetts

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Engineering Chemicals/Plastics Environment Manufacturing

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indie Semiconductor CEO Appears on CNBC’s Mad Money

indie Semiconductor CEO Appears on CNBC’s Mad Money

Donald McClymont Introduces indie to Viewers on the March 31 Broadcast

ALISO VIEJO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
indie Semiconductor, an Autotech solutions innovator which is currently in the process of becoming a public company through a planned merger with Thunder Bridge Acquisition II, Ltd. (Nasdaq: THBR), a special purpose acquisition company, announced that Donald McClymont, its CEO and co-founder, was interviewed by Jim Cramer on CNBC’s Mad Money which aired on March 31, 2021. Cramer and McClymont discussed Autotech dynamics and how indie is positioned to capitalize on the strategic market opportunity.

The segment is available for viewing on indie’s website at: www.indiesemi.com.

About indie

indie is empowering the Autotech revolution with next generation automotive semiconductors and software platforms. We focus on edge sensors for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems including LiDAR, connected car, user experience and electrification applications. These technologies represent the core underpinnings of both electric and autonomous vehicles, while the advanced user interfaces transform the in-cabin experience to mirror and seamlessly connect to the mobile platforms we rely on every day. We are an approved vendor to Tier 1 partners and our solutions can be found in marquee automotive OEMs around the world. Headquartered in Aliso Viejo, CA, indie has design centers and sales offices in Austin, TX; Boston, MA; Detroit, MI; San Francisco and San Jose, CA; Budapest, Hungary; Dresden, Germany; Edinburgh, Scotland and various locations throughout China.

Please visit us at www.indiesemi.com to learn more.

In December 2020, indie announced it entered into a definitive agreement to merge with Thunder Bridge Acquisition II, Ltd. (Nasdaq: THBR), a special purpose acquisition company. The transaction is expected to close in early Spring 2021, subject to regulatory and stockholder approvals, and other customary closing conditions. The combined company will retain the indie Semiconductor name and be listed on Nasdaq under the new ticker symbol “INDI.”

About Thunder Bridge Acquisition II, Ltd.

Thunder Bridge Acquisition II, Ltd. is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. In August 2019, Thunder Bridge Acquisition II, Ltd. consummated a $345 million initial public offering (the “IPO”) of 34.5 million units (reflecting the underwriters’ exercise of their over-allotment option in full), each unit consisting of one of the Company’s Class A ordinary shares and one-half warrant, each whole warrant enabling the holder thereof to purchase one Class A ordinary share at a price of $11.50 per share. Thunder Bridge II’s securities are quoted on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker symbols THBRU, THBR and THBRW.

Additional Information about the Transaction and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed transaction, Thunder Bridge II filed a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Form S-4”), which includes a proxy statement/prospectus, with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on January 25, 2021, and intends to file any and all additional relevant materials and other documents, as they become available, regarding the proposed transaction with the SEC. Thunder Bridge II’s shareholders and other interested persons are advised to read, the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, included in the Form S-4, and the amendments thereto and the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and documents incorporated by reference therein filed in connection with the proposed business combination, as these materials will contain important information about indie, Thunder Bridge II and the proposed business combination. Promptly after the Form S-4 is declared effective by the SEC, Thunder Bridge II will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and a proxy card to each shareholder entitled to vote at the meeting relating to the approval of the Business Combination and other proposals set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus. Before making any voting or investment decision, investors and shareholders of Thunder Bridge II are urged to carefully read the entire Form S-4 and proxy statement/prospectus, when they become available, and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to these documents, because they will contain important information about the proposed transaction. The documents filed by Thunder Bridge II with the SEC may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to Thunder Bridge Acquisition II, Ltd., 9912 Georgetown Pike, Suite D203, Great Falls, Virginia, 22066, Attention: Secretary, or by calling (202) 431-0507.

Participants in the Solicitation

Thunder Bridge II and its directors and executive officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from its shareholders with respect to the business combination. A list of the names of those directors and executive officers and a description of their interests in Thunder Bridge II is in the proxy statement/prospectus for the proposed business combination included in the Form S-4, which is available at www.sec.gov. Information about Thunder Bridge II’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Thunder Bridge II ordinary shares is set forth in Thunder Bridge II prospectus, dated August 9, 2019 and in the proxy statement/prospectus included in the Form S-4, as may be modified or supplemented by any Form 3 or Form 4 filed with the SEC since the date of such filings. Other information regarding the interests of the participants in the proxy solicitation is also disclosed in the proxy statement/prospectus included in the Form S-4 pertaining to the proposed business combination. These documents can be obtained free of charge from www.sec.gov.indie and its directors and executive officers may also be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Thunder Bridge II in connection with the proposed business combination. A list of the names of such directors and executive officers and information regarding their interests in the proposed business combination is disclosed in the proxy statement/prospectus included in the Form S-4 for the proposed business combination.

Forward Looking Statements

This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about future financial and operating results, our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions with respect to future operations, products and services; and other statements identified by words such as “will likely result,” “are expected to,” “will continue,” “is anticipated,” “estimated,” “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “projection,” “outlook” or words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding indie’s industry and market sizes, future opportunities for indie and Thunder Bridge II, indie’s estimated future results and the proposed business combination between Thunder Bridge II and indie, including the implied enterprise value, the expected transaction and ownership structure and the likelihood, timing and ability of the parties to successfully consummate the proposed transaction. Such forward-looking statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond our control. Actual results and the timing of events may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements.

In addition to factors previously disclosed in Thunder Bridge II’s reports filed with the SEC and those identified elsewhere in this communication, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results and the timing of events to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements: inability to meet the closing conditions to the business combination, including the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the definitive agreement; the inability to complete the transactions contemplated by the definitive agreement due to the failure to obtain approval of Thunder Bridge II’s shareholders, the failure to achieve the minimum amount of cash available following any redemptions by Thunder Bridge II shareholders, redemptions exceeding a maximum threshold or the failure to meet The Nasdaq Stock Market’s initial listing standards in connection with the consummation of the contemplated transactions; costs related to the transactions contemplated by the definitive agreement; a delay or failure to realize the expected benefits from the proposed transaction; risks related to disruption of management’s time from ongoing business operations due to the proposed transaction; changes in the automobile or semiconductor markets in which indie competes, including with respect to its competitive landscape, technology evolution or regulatory changes; changes in domestic and global general economic conditions, risk that indie may not be able to execute its growth strategies, including identifying and executing acquisitions; risks related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and response; risk that indie may not be able to develop and maintain effective internal controls; and other risks and uncertainties indicated in Thunder Bridge II’s final prospectus, dated August 9, 2019, for its initial public offering, and the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the proposed business combination, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and in Thunder Bridge II’s other filings with the SEC. Indie cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive.

Actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially, and potentially adversely, from any projections and forward-looking statements and the assumptions on which those forward-looking statements are based. There can be no assurance that the data contained herein is reflective of future performance to any degree. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a predictor of future performance as projected financial information and other information are based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to various significant risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. All information set forth herein speaks only as of the date hereof in the case of information about Thunder Bridge II and indie or the date of such information in the case of information from persons other than Thunder Bridge II or indie, and we disclaim any intention or obligation to update any forward looking statements as a result of developments occurring after the date of this communication. Forecasts and estimates regarding indie’s industry and end markets are based on sources we believe to be reliable, however there can be no assurance these forecasts and estimates will prove accurate in whole or in part. Annualized, pro forma, projected and estimated numbers are used for illustrative purpose only, are not forecasts and may not reflect actual results.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release shall not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent, or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed business combination. This press release shall also not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

Media Relations:

Pilar Barrigas

949-608-0854

[email protected]

Investor Relations:

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: California United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Semiconductor Other Energy Automotive General Automotive Technology Other Technology Energy

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Bassett Announces Fiscal First Quarter Results

BASSETT, Va., April 01, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq: BSET) announced today its results of operations for its first quarter ended February 27, 2021.


Fiscal 2021


First Quarter Highlights



(Dollars in millions)

  Sales


  Operating Income (Loss)


  1st Qtr


    Dollar   %       1st Qtr % of       1st Qtr   % of  
    2021   2020     Change   Change       2021 Sales       2020   Sales  
Consolidated (1) $ 113.7 $ 112.1   $ 1.6   1.4 %   $ 6.0 5.3 %   $ 2.2   2.0 %
                                           
Wholesale $ 70.3 $ 65.0   $ 5.2   8.3 %   $ 4.8 6.8 %   $ 2.7   4.2 %
                                           
Retail $ 60.4 $ 65.8   $ (5.5 ) -8.3 %   $ 1.1 1.8 %   $ (1.2 ) -1.9 %
                                           
Logistical Services $ 20.1 $ 21.3   $ (1.2 ) -5.8 %   $ 0.5 2.3 %   $ 0.8   3.9 %
                                           
(1) Our consolidated results include certain intercompany eliminations. See the “Segment Information” table below for an illustration
      of the effects of these intercompany eliminations on our consolidated sales and operating income.

Incoming orders continued at a torrid pace during the first quarter of fiscal 2021. All sales channels recorded written business increases, resulting in a 44% year over year spike in net orders. We are battling every day with the broken supply chain that is affecting the entire industry’s ability to produce and ship furniture and with rampant inflation that is permeating virtually every form of raw material in our manufactured and imported goods. Despite the headwinds, consolidated revenue grew by 1.4% in the period and operating income increased by 172% to $6.0 million. As a result, EPS advanced to $0.40 per share as compared to $0.12 in the prior year.

Our “sell, then make” model has put us at somewhat of a disadvantage during the COVID months of 2020 and early 2021. Expanding on that thought, 80% of our furniture products are selected by our consumers before they have been manufactured. This is in stark contrast to the vast majority of U.S. furniture retailers that derive most of their revenue from goods that have already been made and reside in their warehouses ready for delivery. Upon receipt of the sales order, our merchandise is scheduled and entered into production. Prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, our production cycle on these custom-made goods was generally 2-3 weeks. Unfortunately, the combination of surging orders and the inability of our long-time suppliers to reliably provide us with fabric, foam, birch plywood, etc. has ballooned our wholesale backlog to $67.5 million at quarter end, or 362% more than last year at this time. Continued strong orders have elevated the backlog by another 8% through four weeks of March.

Reinforcing our commitment to a “Made in America” strategy, we unveiled an expansion of our Bench Made sub-brand in late February. The Bench Made label will now be affixed to all of our domestically manufactured premium products; bedroom, dining, occasional, entertainment, stationary upholstery, and motion upholstery products that are crafted with our best materials and artisanship. Our thinking is driven by the viscerally positive reaction that we have seen from our customers and retail designers to our authentic story of a 119 year old American manufacturer that survived the devastating effects of globalization and recommitted to “Made in America.” Our “makers” who actually craft our products are the stars of the marketing campaign, which will ultimately encompass other tenets of the Bench Made brand including environmental stewardship and sustainability. The expanded Bench Made first appeared on our website on February 25th, was featured in March in our “Makers Sale,” and will be showcased in a consumer catalog in early May.

To address our growing backlog, we have made the commitment to open another upholstery manufacturing facility in Newton, NC, adjacent to our existing 500,000 square foot complex. Production from this additional 123,000 square foot facility should begin by June 1 and will be dedicated to our successful “Everyday Value” product range that features the opening price points in our assortment. The added space will also allow us to expand our thriving Bench Made motion program, previously referred to as Magnificent Motion, that has exceeded our sales projections since its debut in early 2020. I am very grateful for the hard work that our associates have put in and the many weeks of extended work schedules that they have been willing to undertake in order for us to service our customers as best we can under these unprecedented circumstances. We believe that a significant amount of sold orders will break free and begin to ship in late May as long-awaited componentry begins to arrive and is put into production.

Despite generating strong written sales growth for the period, our delivered sales in our corporate store network declined by 8.3% due to the aforementioned industry supply chain situation coupled with six fewer stores in operation compared to last year. Pandemic related cost reductions and this quarter’s gross margin expansion combined to produce $1.1 million of retail operating profit, significant in what has historically been our toughest quarter of the year. As is the case in our wholesale segment, there is significant operating profit embedded in our large unfulfilled retail backlog that will begin to bleed out late in the second quarter and throughout the back half of the year. Noteworthy in the period is the acceleration of our customer acquisition efforts, which contributed an additional one million visitors to our website. Eschewing most of the traditional media used in the past, our digital media strategy took off in the pandemic and drove double digit increases in keyword impressions in the first quarter.

Combining our corporate retail stores, the licensed store network, and the 100 strong Bassett Design Centers located within traditional furniture stores, our dedicated distribution strategy accounted for 74% of Bassett-branded quarterly wholesale orders. The shared synergies of our marketing efforts and our website are combining to make our advertising calendar and our merchandising programs universal. All told, wholesale orders from our “open market’” customers grew by 98% in the quarter. In addition to the Bassett Design Centers, the momentum generated by our Bassett Club Level motion program was a major factor in this tremendous growth.

Our entry into the outdoor furniture space has gathered steam over the past two years, culminating in a combined written sales increase of 81% for our Lane Venture and Bassett Outdoor lines. Although the disruptions caused by tariffs on our Chinese woven frames and the delivery problems that we have experienced with our largest outdoor fabric supplier have compressed margins and slowed production, we believe that our quality and service have helped us capture market share and we look forward to doing more in the future.

On the whole, we got off to a promising start in 2021 over the first 90 days. Our margins suffered somewhat as a result of rampant material increases. In December and January our manufacturing facilities battled high rates of COVID related absenteeism. The inability to reliably obtain the necessary raw materials for furniture production made each day unpredictable. Nevertheless, our backlogs are very strong and our incoming business has remained substantial in March. Therefore, we are optimistic about our business for the remainder of 2021.

                                                                                                                                       Robert H. Spilman, Jr., Chairman and CEO

About Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc.

Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ:BSET), is a leading manufacturer and marketer of high quality home furnishings. With 97 company- and licensee-owned stores at the time of this release, Bassett has leveraged its strong brand name in furniture into a network of corporate and licensed stores that focus on providing consumers with a friendly environment for buying furniture and accessories. Bassett’s retail strategy includes stylish, custom-built furniture that features the latest on-trend furniture styles, free in-home design visits, and coordinated decorating accessories. Bassett also has a traditional wholesale business with more than 700 accounts on the open market, across the United States and internationally and a logistics business specializing in home furnishings. For more information, visit the Company’s website at bassettfurniture.com. (BSET-E)

Certain of the statements in this release, particularly those preceded by, followed by or including the words “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “should,” “estimates,” or similar expressions, or those relating to or anticipating financial results or changes in operations for periods beyond the end of the first fiscal quarter of 2021, constitute “forward looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. For those statements, Bassett claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In many cases, Bassett cannot predict what factors would cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward looking statements. Expectations included in the forward-looking statements are based on preliminary information as well as certain assumptions which management believes to be reasonable at this time. The following important factors affect Bassett and could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward looking statements: the effects of national and global economic or other conditions (including, without limitation, the effects on revenue, supply and demand resulting from the duration and extent of the COVID-19 pandemic) and future events on the retail demand for home furnishings and the ability of Bassett’s customers and consumers to obtain credit; the success of marketing, logistics, retail and other initiatives; and the economic, competitive, governmental and other factors identified in Bassett’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement that Bassett makes speaks only as of the date of such statement, and Bassett undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Comparisons of results for current and any prior periods are not intended to express any future trends or indication of future performance, unless expressed as such, and should only be viewed as historical data.

Table 1
BASSETT FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations – unaudited
(In thousands, except for per share data)
           
  Quarter Ended
  February 27, 2021   February 29, 2020
    Percent of     Percent of
  Amount Net Sales   Amount Net Sales
           
Sales revenue:          
Furniture and accessories $ 101,655       $ 98,942    
Logistics   12,018         13,178    
Total sales revenue   113,673   100.0 %     112,120   100.0 %
           
Cost of furniture and accessories sold   48,252   42.4 %     45,270   40.4 %
           
Selling, general and administrative expenses   59,400   52.3 %     64,640   57.7 %
Income from operations   6,021   5.3 %     2,210   2.0 %
           
Other loss, net   (337 ) -0.3 %     (362 ) -0.3 %
Income before income taxes   5,684   5.0 %     1,848   1.6 %
           
Income tax provision   1,673   1.5 %     638   0.6 %
Net income (loss) $ 4,011   3.5 %   $ 1,210   1.1 %
           
Basic earnings per share $ 0.40       $ 0.12    
           
Diluted earnings per share $ 0.40       $ 0.12    

Table 2
BASSETT FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands)
  (Unaudited)    

Assets
February 27, 2021   November 28, 2020
Current assets      
Cash and cash equivalents $ 45,033     $ 45,799  
Short-term investments   17,715       17,715  
Accounts receivable, net   24,720       22,340  
Inventories, net   62,936       54,886  
Recoverable income taxes   8,831       9,666  
Other current assets   11,798       10,272  
Total current assets   171,033       160,678  
       
Property and equipment, net   92,772       90,917  
       
Other long-term assets      
Deferred income taxes, net   3,749       4,587  
Goodwill and other intangible assets   23,732       23,827  
Right of use assets under operating leases   111,700       116,903  
Other   5,975       5,637  
Total long-term assets   145,156       150,954  
Total assets $ 408,961     $ 402,549  
       

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
     
Current liabilities      
Accounts payable $ 28,172     $ 23,426  
Accrued compensation and benefits   14,418       16,964  
Customer deposits   44,674       39,762  
Current portion of operating lease obligations   27,088       27,078  
Other current liabilities and accrued expenses   13,088       11,141  
Total current liabilities   127,440       118,371  
       
Long-term liabilities      
Post employment benefit obligations   12,347       12,089  
Long-term portion of operating lease obligations   105,990       111,972  
Other long-term liabilities   5,483       2,087  
Total long-term liabilities   123,820       126,148  
       
       
Stockholders’ equity      
Common stock   49,567       49,714  
Retained earnings   109,493       109,710  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (1,359 )     (1,394 )
Total stockholders’ equity   157,701       158,030  
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 408,961     $ 402,549  

Table 3
BASSETT FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – unaudited
(In thousands)
       
  Quarter Ended
  February 27, 2021   February 29, 2020
Operating activities:      
Net income $ 4,011     $ 1,210  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in)      
operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization   3,331       3,623  
Gain on lease modification         (152 )
Net (gain) loss on disposals of property and equipment   (4 )     (58 )
Deferred income taxes   826       (125 )
Other, net   274       321  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities      
Accounts receivable   (2,380 )     (1,873 )
Inventories   (8,050 )     (1,213 )
Other current and long-term assets   (788 )     (536 )
Right of use assets under operating leases   6,340       6,721  
Customer deposits   4,912       (1,292 )
Accounts payable and other liabilities   3,584       (2,266 )
Obligations under operating leases   (7,072 )     (9,603 )
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   4,984       (5,243 )
       
Investing activities:      
Purchases of property and equipment   (895 )     (1,340 )
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment   8       1,697  
Purchase of investments         (241 )
Other   (302 )     (193 )
Net cash used in investing activities   (1,189 )     (77 )
       
Financing activities:      
Cash dividends   (3,718 )     (1,260 )
Other issuance of common stock   83       75  
Repurchases of common stock   (534 )     (766 )
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards   (219 )     (215 )
Repayments of finance lease obligations   (173 )     (12 )
Net cash used in financing activities   (4,561 )     (2,178 )
Change in cash and cash equivalents   (766 )     (7,498 )
Cash and cash equivalents – beginning of period   45,799       19,687  
Cash and cash equivalents – end of period $ 45,033     $ 12,189  

Table 4
BASSETT FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Segment Information – unaudited
(In thousands)
       
  Quarter Ended
  February 27, 2021   February 29, 2020
Net Sales      
Wholesale $ 70,264     $ 65,017  
Retail – Company-owned stores   60,395       65,846  
Logistical services   20,081       21,315  
Inter-company eliminations:      
Furniture and accessories   (29,004 )     (31,921 )
Logistical services   (8,063 )     (8,137 )
Consolidated $ 113,673     $ 112,120  
       
Operating Income (Loss)      
Wholesale $ 4,797     $ 2,713  
Retail   1,094       (1,249 )
Logistical services   459       835  
Inter-company elimination   (329 )     (89 )
Consolidated $ 6,021     $ 2,210  

Table 5
BASSETT FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
Rollforward of BHF Store Count 
           
           
  November 28,       February 27,
  2020 Opened* Closed* Transfers 2021
           
Company-owned stores 63 63
Licensee-owned stores 34 34
           
Total 97 97
           
* Does not include openings and closures due to relocation of existing stores within a market.  

J. Michael Daniel

Senior Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

(276) 629-6614 – Investors
[email protected]

Peter D. Morrison

Vice President of Communications

(276) 629-6450 – Media



HSBC Bank USA Announces Tara Latini as Head of Wealth and Personal Banking

HSBC Bank USA Announces Tara Latini as Head of Wealth and Personal Banking

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
HSBC Bank USA, N.A., (HSBC), today announced the appointment of veteran retail banker Tara Latini as the Head of Wealth and Personal Banking (WPB) in the US. She replaces Pablo Sanchez who has left the bank to pursue other opportunities. Latini reports to Michael Roberts, President and CEO, HSBC USA and Juan Parma, Regional Head of HSBC’s WPB Americas.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210401005046/en/

Tara M. Latini Executive Vice President, Head of Wealth and Personal Banking, US, HSBC (Photo: Business Wire)

Tara M. Latini Executive Vice President, Head of Wealth and Personal Banking, US, HSBC (Photo: Business Wire)

“We are thrilled to welcome Tara back to the US,” said Roberts. “As we strengthen our focus on international wealth management, her expertise in multiple markets around the world, particularly in Asia, will help improve our connectivity to a key HSBC region so that we can better serve our clients.”

Previously, Latini served as the Country Head of WPB in Malaysia where she was responsible for transforming the business into a scale competitor by becoming digitally led with key growth initiatives in wealth and international. She has also held key leadership roles, including Chief Operating Officer for WPB in Europe, Middle East & Africa and for North America and Global Transformation Program Director for the retail business globally.

“I’m excited to return to the US, the largest wealth management market in the world,” said Latini. “Our renewed focus on globally mobile and affluent clients emphasizes a key differentiation for HSBC. I look forward to working with my colleagues around the world to capture the opportunity by leveraging a digital and internationally connected wealth platform built specifically for needs of those clients.”

Latini’s appointment follows the recent announcement of Michael Roberts as the CEO, US and Americas, effective April 5. His responsibilities have extended to take on the regional leadership of HSBC’s businesses in Canada and Latin America, in addition to the US business. He will continue to report to HSBC Group CEO Noel Quinn and remain a member of the Group Executive Committee.

To align with the new regional structure, Juan Parma was named the Regional Head of WPB Americas. He has held a number of senior country and regional leadership roles in retail and commercial banking in Panama, Argentina, Brazil and Mexico, and was appointed Regional Head of WPB Latin America, and Head of WPB Mexico, in 2016. He will continue to be a member of the global WPB Executive Committee. As a consequence of the new structure, HSBC will no longer have Latin America and North America Heads of WPB roles.

Notes to Editors:

HSBC Bank USA, National Association (HSBC Bank USA, N.A.) serves customers through retail banking and wealth management, commercial banking, private banking, and global banking and markets segments. It operates bank branches in: California; Washington, D.C.; Florida; Maryland; New Jersey; New York; Pennsylvania; Virginia; and Washington. HSBC Bank USA, N.A. is the principal subsidiary of HSBC USA Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of HSBC North America Holdings Inc. HSBC Bank USA, N.A. is a Member of FDIC. Investment and brokerage services are provided through HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., (Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC) and insurance products are provided through HSBC Insurance Agency (USA) Inc.

HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 64 countries and territories in its geographical regions: Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, and Middle East and North Africa. With assets of US$2,984bn at 31 December 2020, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations.

HSBC Media Contact:

Matt Klein

+1 212 525 4644

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: United States North America New York

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Banking Professional Services Finance

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Tara M. Latini Executive Vice President, Head of Wealth and Personal Banking, US, HSBC (Photo: Business Wire)