Market Newsdesk

NEW YORK, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — InvestorsObserver issues critical PriceWatch Alerts for EOLS, RAD, ROKU, MARA, and OTIC.

To see how InvestorsObserver’s proprietary scoring system rates these stocks, view the InvestorsObserver’s PriceWatch Alert by selecting the corresponding link.

• EOLS: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?stocksymbol=EOLS&prnumber=121720201 
• RAD: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?stocksymbol=RAD&prnumber=121720201 
• ROKU: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?stocksymbol=ROKU&prnumber=121720201 
• MARA: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?stocksymbol=MARA&prnumber=121720201 
• OTIC: https://www.investorsobserver.com/lp/pr-stocks-lp-2/?stocksymbol=OTIC&prnumber=121720201 

(Note: You may have to copy this link into your browser then press the [ENTER] key.)

InvestorsObserver’s PriceWatch Alerts are based on our proprietary scoring methodology. Each stock is evaluated based on short-term technical, long-term technical and fundamental factors. Each of those scores is then combined into an overall score that determines a stock’s overall suitability for investment.

 

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SOURCE InvestorsObserver

FORT WAYNE, Ind., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ –Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NASDAQ/GS: STLD) today provided fourth quarter 2020 earnings guidance in the range of $0.72 to $0.76 per diluted share. Excluding the impact from the following, the company expects fourth quarter 2020 adjusted earnings to be in the range of $0.80 to $0.84 per diluted share:

• Additional financing costs of $10 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, related to the company’s October 2020 refinancing activities, and
• Costs of approximately $15 million, or $0.05 per diluted share (net of capitalized interest), associated with construction of the company’s Sinton Texas Flat Roll Steel Mill growth investment.

The company is currently evaluating the fair value of certain noncore oil and gas investments. Based on this analysis, the company believes it may incur asset impairment charges during the fourth quarter 2020 in the range of $10 million to $15 million (after-tax). However, based on the ongoing nature of the evaluation, the potential asset impairment has not been included in the above earnings guidance range.

Comparatively, the company’s sequential third quarter 2020 earnings were $0.47 per diluted share, and adjusted earnings were $0.51 per diluted share, excluding the impact of construction costs related to the Texas steel mill of $0.04 per diluted share. Prior year fourth quarter earnings were $0.56 per diluted share, and adjusted earnings were $0.62 per diluted share, excluding refinancing costs of $0.01 per diluted share and lower earnings of approximately $0.05 per diluted share associated with planned maintenance outages at the company’s two flat roll steel mills.

Fourth quarter 2020 earnings from the company’s steel operations are expected to be meaningfully higher than sequential third quarter results, driven by flat roll metal spread expansion and steady total steel shipments.  Average realized quarterly flat roll steel product pricing is expected to increase significantly during the quarter, more than offsetting increased scrap costs. Domestic steel demand remains strong, with the automotive and construction sectors leading the momentum. Strong demand coupled with historically low steel inventories throughout the supply chain is supporting higher steel selling values and order entry activity.      

As domestic steel production further increased in the fourth quarter, ferrous scrap demand also strengthened.  Fourth quarter earnings from the company’s metals recycling operations are also expected to be higher than sequential third quarter results, based on significantly higher metal margins as average quarterly ferrous scrap prices increased and volumes expanded.

Construction continues to be resilient. The customer order backlog for the company’s steel fabrication platform is at a record high, and customers are optimistic concerning non-residential construction projects, as evidenced through sustained order activity.  However, fourth quarter 2020 earnings from the company’s steel fabrication operations are expected to be lower than the record results achieved in the sequential third quarter, due to lower seasonal shipments and metal spread compression, as average industry selling values declined and steel input costs increased.

About Steel Dynamics, Inc.
Steel Dynamics is one of the largest domestic steel producers and metals recyclers in the United States based on estimated annual steelmaking and metals recycling capability, with facilities located throughout the United States, and in Mexico. Steel Dynamics produces steel products, including hot roll, cold roll, and coated sheet steel, structural steel beams and shapes, rail, engineered special-bar-quality steel, cold finished steel, merchant bar products, specialty steel sections and steel joists and deck. In addition, the company produces liquid pig iron and processes and sells ferrous and nonferrous scrap.

Note Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The company reports its financial results in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Management believes that Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share, a non-GAAP financial measure, provides additional meaningful information regarding the company’s performance and financial strength. Non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative for, the company’s reported results prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, because not all companies use identical calculations, Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share included in this release may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains some predictive statements about future events, including statements related to conditions in domestic or global economies, conditions in steel and recycled metals market places, Steel Dynamics’ revenues, costs of purchased materials, future profitability and earnings, and the operation of new, existing or planned facilities. These statements, which we generally precede or accompany by such typical conditional words as “anticipate”, “intend”, “believe”, “estimate”, “plan”, “seek”, “project”, or “expect”, or by the words “may”, “will”, or “should”, are intended to be made as “forward-looking,” subject to many risks and uncertainties, within the safe harbor protections of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements speak only as of this date and are based upon information and assumptions, which we consider reasonable as of this date, concerning our businesses and the environments in which they operate. Such predictive statements are not a guarantee of future performance, and we undertake no duty to update or revise any such statements. Some factors that could cause such forward-looking statements to turn out differently than anticipated include: (1) the effects of uncertain economic conditions; (2) the effects of pandemics or other health issues, such as the novel coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19); (3) cyclical and changing industrial demand; (4) changes in conditions in any of the steel or scrap-consuming sectors of the economy which affect demand for our products, including the strength of the non-residential and residential construction, automotive, manufacturing, appliance, energy, and other steel-consuming industries; (5) fluctuations in the cost of key raw materials and supplies (including steel scrap, iron units, zinc, graphite electrodes, and energy costs) and our ability to pass on any cost increases; (6) the impact of domestic and foreign imports, including trade policy, restrictions, or agreements; (7) unanticipated difficulties in integrating or starting up new, acquired or planned businesses or assets; (8) risks and uncertainties involving product and/or technology development; and (9) occurrences of unexpected plant outages or equipment failures.

More specifically, we refer you to Steel Dynamics’ more detailed explanation of these and other factors and risks that may cause such predictive statements to turn out differently, as set forth in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K under the headings Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors, in our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, or in other reports which we from time to time file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These are available publicly on the Securities and Exchange Commission website, www.sec.gov, and on the Steel Dynamics website, www.steeldynamics.com under “Investors — SEC Filings”.

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SOURCE Steel Dynamics, Inc.

SHANGHAI and NEW YORK, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — As China’s film industry continues its strong post-pandemic rebound, Guangzhou JinYi Media Corporation (002905.SZ), IMAX (NYSE: IMAX) and IMAX China (HKSE: 1970) announced that they have expanded their longstanding partnership with a new 12-theatre agreement. Under the deal, JinYi will upgrade to cutting-edge IMAX® with Laser technology at seven of its most popular IMAX locations — including one of their top grossing theatres in Beijing — and install five IMAX systems at new locations. After today’s agreement, IMAX will have 989 total screens in China including backlogs nationwide.

“As a leading film exhibitor in China, JinYi is committed to offering the best-in-class experience for moviegoers,” said Li Xiaodong, President of Guangzhou JinYi Media Corporation. “Throughout our years of partnership, IMAX has consistently provided audiences with an unmatched moviegoing experience. We look forward to bringing this experience to more audiences across China with this new agreement and we are confident that IMAX will continue to strengthen our brand and drive strong business results as the industry recovers and develops in the post-pandemic market.”

“This agreement continues to prove the value of IMAX in driving moviegoer interest and business growth in China, where we’ve helped lead the way in bringing people back to the theatre,” said IMAX China CEO Edwin Tan. “We are excited to expand our partnership with JinYi and look forward to continuing to play a key role in cementing their flagship locations and network expansion, driven by strong, sustained demand in the post-pandemic market.”

IMAX has been a significant driver of the industry’s rebound in China. Recently, IMAX shattered box office records during the National Day Holiday, recording RMB 128 million with a 23% increase in attendance despite a 75% capacity limit. The first Chinese film shot entirely with IMAX cameras, “The Eight Hundred”, has become the biggest global blockbuster of 2020 earning approximately $470 million globally to date. Since theaters reopened in late July, IMAX has grossed nearly $80 million in mainland China with a market share of approximately 3.5%, up from 2.6% during the same period in 2019.

The seven theatre upgrades included in the agreement span JinYi IMAX theatres in 1st and 2nd tier cities, including the top-performing Beijing Joy City JinYi IMAX. The announcement brings the total number of  JinYi and its affiliated IMAX theatres to 105 since they signed their first agreement in 2009, including 39 directly operated Jinyi IMAX theaters opened as of December 31, 2019.

JinYi is currently China’s second-largest film exhibitor in partnership with IMAX. In 2019, JinYi’s box office brought in approximately RMB 2.88 billion with 2,667 screens across 424 cinemas, including franchised cinemas.

IMAX with Laser is IMAX’s most advanced theatre experience. Immersive by design, IMAX with Laser has been developed from the ground-up to deliver crystal clear, lifelike images and precision audio for a moviegoing experience unlike anything else. It is set apart by a groundbreaking 4k laser projection system that features a new optical engine, custom designed lenses, and a suite of proprietary technology that delivers brighter images with increase resolution, deeper contrast, and the widest range of colors exclusively to IMAX screens.

About Guangzhou JinYi Media Corporation

Established in 2004, Guangzhou JinYi Media Corporation (‘JinYi’), is one of the most famous enterprises dedicated to cinema distribution and film exhibition in China. The company’s main products include film screenings, film distribution, merchandising and film production investments. Its subsidiary JinYi Cinema is one of the top cinema franchises in China. As of 2020 June, JinYi manages at least 2,583 screens across 414
subsidiary and affiliated
cinemas in
25
 provinces
 an
d four municipalities and 71 cities.  The box office performance of JinYi has been at the forefront of all cinema chains. Meanwhile, JinYi is well recognized within the industry by receiving various awards and honors. In February 2016, JinYi’s Guangzhou Haizhu IMAX Theatre formally opened, and won a series of awards for its “Meteor Shower” design concept, including the 2016 Germany Iconic Award – Interior Design Category and the 2016 Germany Red Dot Design Award – Architecture and Interior Design Category. In May 2016, JinYi was awarded the title of “Famous Brand of Guangzhou.” In August 2016, JinYi was named as “Guangzhou 100 Innovation Company.” In November 2016, the JinYi Cinema Sky Club was launched as the first art cinema in Guangdong Province. In December of the same year, the Committee of Guangzhou International Documentary Film Festival, China, awarded JinYi one of “10 China Documentary Drivers.”

The large membership base is an important asset of JinYi, and cinemas are complexes where the members conduct their consumption behavior. JinYi will constantly upgrade products and innovative experiences based on customers’ needs, and build a diversified, entertaining and service-oriented film and life service platform for audiences. On October 16, 2017, JinYi went public on Shenzhen Stock Exchange (
SZSE: 002905), making it one of the few listed film exhibitors in China.

About IMAX China
IMAX China is a subsidiary of IMAX Corporation, and is incorporated under the laws of Cayman Islands. IMAX China was established by IMAX Corporation specifically to oversee the expansion of IMAX’s business throughout Greater China. IMAX China trades on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “HK.1970.”

About IMAX Corporation
IMAX, an innovator in entertainment technology, combines proprietary software, architecture and equipment to create experiences that take you beyond the edge of your seat to a world you’ve never imagined. Top filmmakers and studios are utilizing IMAX theaters to connect with audiences in extraordinary ways, and, as such, IMAX’s network is among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event films around the globe. 

IMAX is headquartered in New York, Toronto, and Los Angeles, with additional offices in London, Dublin, Tokyo, and Shanghai. As of September 30, 2020, there were 1,632 IMAX theater systems (1,542 commercial multiplexes, 13 commercial destinations, 77 institutional) operating in 82 countries and territories. Shares of IMAX China Holding, Inc., a subsidiary of IMAX Corporation, trade on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “HK.1970.” 

IMAX®, IMAX® Dome, IMAX® 3D, IMAX® 3D Dome, Experience It In IMAX®, The IMAX Experience®, An IMAX Experience®, An IMAX 3D Experience®, IMAX DMR®, DMR®, IMAX nXos® and Films to the Fullest®, are trademarks and trade names of the Company or its subsidiaries that are registered or otherwise protected under laws of various jurisdictions. More information about the Company can be found at www.imax.com. You may also connect with IMAX on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/imax), Facebook (www.facebook.com/imax), Twitter (www.twitter.com/imax) and YouTube (www.youtube.com/imaxmovies).

 

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SOURCE IMAX Corporation

Scotiabank receives A- grade for strong climate-related disclosure and management  

TORONTO, Dec. 17, 2020 /CNW/ – Scotiabank is pleased to announce it has been awarded a grade of A- from the CDP (formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project) in recognition of its strong management of climate-related issues and transparency in its disclosures. This score is above the Global Financial Services average, and an increase over the organization’s “B” grade last year.

The increase is largely in recognition of the Bank’s climate change strategy launched last year which includes commitments to mobilizing capital and reducing its own operational impacts.

“Scotiabank recognizes that climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time and we are committed to collaboration within and beyond our bank to increase the level of climate action,” says Meigan Terry, Senior Vice President, Global Communications & Social Impact. “The Scotiabank Climate Commitments are our response to addressing this challenge, including a commitment to robust governance and transparency in disclosure. The recognition from CDP reaffirms that we are on the right track in managing and reporting on these important matters.”

 The Scotiabank Climate Commitments also include a commitment to governance and transparency in disclosure, something that CDP also recognizes.

CDP – a not-for-profit organization known for its global disclosure system for environmental reporting – awarded Scotiabank high marks for its transparency and actions taken in the following categories:

• initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the Bank’s operations, and robust third-party verification of operational data;
• integration of climate-related risk management in lending; and
• governance and oversight of climate-related issues.

Scotiabank has made significant progress towards meeting its Climate Commitments, first announced in 2019, including: 

• mobilizing over $28 billion in Green and Transition finance (since November 1, 2018);
• allocating proceeds from Scotiabank’s inaugural USD$500 million 3.5-year Green Bond to green building and clean transportation projects as outlined in our Green Bond Report;
• implementing a Climate Change Risk Assessment to further integrate the considerations of climate change into risk management and credit adjudication;
• establishing a partnership with the Institute of Sustainable Finance at Queen’s University to help align mainstream financial markets with the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy, as part of Scotiabank’s Climate Change Centre of Excellence; and 
• creating an enterprise-wide Climate Action and Environmental Employee Resource Group.

This latest recognition from CDP builds on Scotiabank’s track record of environmental excellence including recent inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index North America for the third consecutive year.

To read more about Scotiabank’s sustainability strategy and Climate Commitments visit www.scotiabank.com/sustainability.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank is a leading bank in the Americas. Guided by our purpose: “for every future”, we help our customers, their families and their communities achieve success through a broad range of advice, products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets. With a team of over 90,000 employees and assets of approximately $1.1 trillion (as at October 31, 2020), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: BNS) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BNS). For more information, please visit http://www.scotiabank.com and follow us on Twitter @ScotiabankViews.

SOURCE The Bank of Nova Scotia

BOONTON, N.J., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Enteris BioPharma, Inc., a biotechnology company developing innovative drug products based on its proprietary delivery technologies, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of SWK Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq: SWKH), announced that the company is participating in Biotech Showcase Digital and BIO @ JPM.  Both events will be held virtually and are scheduled alongside the J.P. Morgan 39^th Annual Healthcare Conference 2021.

Details of the events are as follows:

During the events, Enteris will have virtual meetings with pharmaceutical executives to explore opportunities involving Peptelligence^® and ProPerma™, the company’s novel formulation technologies that enable oral delivery BCS class II, III and IV compounds including peptides, peptidomimetics, and small molecules. Enteris continues to advance internal and external programs that leverage Peptelligence and ProPerma, some of which are in late-stage clinical development.

“During 2020, we experienced a year unlike any in recent times, and though there was much tragedy, the therapeutic and vaccine breakthroughs we witnessed were awe inspiring,” said Rajiv Khosla, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Enteris. “Much of the success was the result of companies partnering to maximize each team’s technological and scientific expertise, and, doing so, demonstrating the power of collaboration.  Enteris seeks to emulate the innovative spirit of these partnerships by working with pharmaceutical and biotech companies to overcome the barriers to oral delivery of peptide and small molecule therapies with low bioavailability to unlock the potential for myriad drug products and to reshape treatment paradigms. We are excited to advance this initiative throughout 2021, beginning with Biotech Showcase Digital and BIO @ JPM.”

About Enteris BioPharma
Enteris BioPharma, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SWK Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq: SWKH) offering innovative formulation solutions utilizing its proprietary drug delivery technologies, Peptelligence^® and ProPerma™. The technologies have been the subject of numerous feasibility studies and active development programs, several of which are in late-stage clinical development. Additionally, Enteris BioPharma is advancing an internal product pipeline of oral tablet reformulations of drug products that address significant treatment opportunities for which there is no oral delivery option. Enteris BioPharma’s most advanced internal product candidate, Ovarest^® (oral leuprolide tablet), is an oral peptide being developed for the treatment of endometriosis. Tobrate™ (oral tobramycin tablet) is also being developed by Enteris BioPharma for the treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infection (uUTI).  A third internal compound, octreotide, is currently in preclinical development. For more information on Enteris BioPharma and its proprietary oral delivery technology, please visit http://www.EnterisBioPharma.com.

View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/enteris-biopharma-to-participate-in-biotech-showcase-digital-and-bio–jpm-during-jp-morgan-week-2021-301195040.html

SOURCE Enteris BioPharma, Inc.

MONTRÉAL, Dec. 17, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ – BTB Real Estate Investment Trust (TSX: BTB.UN) (“BTB” or the “REIT“) releases a yearend overview and provides a statement to investors and collaborators going into the holiday season.

ACQUISITION AND DISPOSITONS

BTB’s acquisition and disposition team concluded transactions to enhance the quality of our portfolio. BTB disposed of 4 properties, for total proceeds of $48.5 million dollars, excluding transaction costs and acquired 2 properties for a total consideration of $29.85 million dollars, excluding transaction costs.

Summary of BTB’s 2020 Acquisitions

• 2611 Queensview Drive, Ottawa, Ontario (Office).
• 2005 Le Chatelier Street, Laval, Montréal (Industrial).

Summary of BTB’s 2020 Dispositions

• 311 Ingersoll, London, Ontario (Industrial);
• 5600, Chemin de la Côte de Liesse, Montréal, Québec (Industrial);
• 1001, Sherbrooke Street East, Montréal, Québec (Office);
• 550-560, boulevard Henri-Bourassa Ouest, Montréal, Québec (Office).

The first three properties in the disposition list above, were disposed of due to attractive offers that were received, whilst the last property, 550-560 boulevard Henri-Bourassa Ouest, was disposed pursuant to the conclusions of the strategic repositioning of BTB’s portfolio.

As a reminder, BTB’s strategic repositioning was aimed at re-focussing its acquisition criteria in-line with the following:

• Concentrate portfolio in major, primary markets such as Montréal, Quebec City, Ottawa, and Toronto (as a future target).
• Targeting acquisition of properties valued between 10 and 50 million $.
• Targeting acquisitions of properties with a long-term hold perspective, showing:
• Long-term leases;
• High occupancy rates; or
• Established tenants.

To complete the disposition strategy pursuant to the strategic review, to this date, only one property remains to be disposed to bring the strategic repositioning to a close.

LOOKING BACK AT OUR QUARTERLY AND ANNUAL RESULTS

Our 2019 annual results published in March 2020, entitled “A Renewed BTB Takes Place” demonstrated the strength and tremendous growth that BTB recorded for the year ended December 31^st, 2019. The year was notably marked with BTB achieving an important milestone; our total asset value surpassed the $900 million threshold as well as our market cap surged over the $300 million mark. Our occupancy rate also showed an all time high, closing the year at 93.2%. Overall, 2019 was a performant year where we saw the effect of a stronger portfolio and stellar financial matrix.

Our Q1 2020 results continued to track on the same positive trend, despite the COVID-19 pandemic which started to impact businesses in Canada mid-way through the month of March 2020. For the comparable quarter of the previous year, we recorded a 10.3% increase in rental income, 15.5% increase in net operating income and 36.7% increase in our adjusted net income. Our results followed the 2019 trend, where our portfolio repositioning showed its strength¹.

Our Q2 2020 results were published on August 14^th, 2020. Our results remained positive despite the effects of the pandemic and the challenging first months of the quarter. However, BTB remained pro-active and was able to post great results despite all the measures undertaken by the REIT to safeguard its tenant base and cash flow. On a comparable basis, we saw our NOI grow by 1.8%, our total debt ratio decreased to 58.6% and we recorded an average rent collection rate of more than 97% for the period. We must note that our Ottawa portfolio had a stellar performance as we were able to collect almost 100% of our contractual rents for the period. In addition, the strategic repositioning of our portfolio has proven to be fruitful yet again. Our last 4 acquisitions generated $1.7 million in revenues in excess of the revenues that we would have collected from the disposed properties, had they remained in our portfolio.² As a reminder, BTB does not own enclosed malls.

Six months into the pandemic, our Q3 2020 results were published and yet again, BTB showed its tenacity, resiliency, and strength as we gleaned, for a second consecutive quarter, robust results despite the effect of the pandemic. Overall, our net income increased by 2.3%, our SPNOI increased by 0.8% and we renewed leases with existing tenants representing more than 225,381 sq. ft. We successfully leased a total of 173,995 sq. ft. to new tenants. Our total debt ratio stood at 59.7%, further solidifying our commitment to maintaining that ratio below 60%.³

Albeit the challenging economic conditions, through 2020, BTB was able to generate stable and consistent results, by adopting a successful operating strategy.  BTB and all its employees were able to mitigate the risks associated with the pandemic by adopting a hands-on approach, managing tenant requests on a case-by-case personalized basis to respect BTB’s core values. For the period ranging between May to November, our rent collection rate stands at 98%.

FINANCING

On September 29^th, 2020, BTB closed a public offering, on a bought deal basis, for an aggregate principal amount of $30 million thereby issuing the Series H 7.00% Convertible Unsecured Subordinated Debentures, maturing on October 31^st, 2025 and on October 26^th, 2020, BTB successfully redeemed all the outstanding Series F Debenture.

DISTRIBUTION

Due to the economic uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the possible effects on the Trust’s financial position and future cash requirements, on May 12^th, 2020, the Board of Trustees approved a resolution to adjust the annual distribution from 42.0¢ to 30.0¢ for the distribution payable as of the May 2020.  

GREAT PLACE TO WORK

BTB is proud to have obtained Great Place to Work ® certification! Based on results of a survey sent to all employees, asking questions about their workplace, work-life balance, etc. BTB’s employees have elected BTB as a GPTW for a second consecutive year. Thank you all for this nomination!

SUMMIT CREATIVE AWARDS 

For the second consecutive year, BTB was awarded the “Summit Creative Award” for our 2019 Annual Report Design! Having won bronze last year, BTB was able to step higher on the podium this year, having been awarded silver.

RETIREMENT

In September 2020, BTB’s CFO, Mr. Benoit Cyr retired. This paved the way for the appointment of Mr. Mathieu Bolté, BTB’s CFO and Vice-President of Finance, thus setting the tone for the Renewed BTB.

FINAL REMARKS

We would like to thank our investors, collaborators, trustees and employees for their trust and support in BTB. This year has been challenging for all including on a personal level, but going into this Holiday Season, we want to extend our gratitude to all of you. Thank you for helping us, thank you for trusting us and thank you for standing by us. We hope that all of you will get to enjoy your holiday festivities, despite the protocols in place and we hope that all of you will remain safe.

All the best to you and your families, stay healthy and safe!

ABOUT BTB

BTB is a real estate investment trust listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. BTB is an important owner of properties in eastern Canada. As at December 17^th, 2020 BTB owns 64 retail, office, and industrial properties for a total leasable area of approximately 5.3 million square feet and an approximate total asset value as of September 30^th, 2020 of approximately of $946M.

BTB’S OBJECTIVES

BTB offers a distribution reinvestment plan to unitholders whereby the participants may elect to have their monthly cash distribution reinvested in additional units of BTB at a price based on the weighted average price for BTB’s Units on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the five trading days immediately preceding the distribution date, discounted by 3%.

For more detailed information, visit BTB’s website at www.btbreit.com.

____________________________
¹See our press release published May 14^th, 2020: “BTB Recorded a Significant Improvement in Results Throughout the First Quarter 2020, Despite an Unprecedented Crisis That Has Been Affecting Individuals and Businesses Alike”. 
²See our press release published August 14^th, 2020: “The Resilience of BTB’s Portfolio is Demonstrated”. 
³ See our press release published November 10^th, 2020: “BTB Demonstrates the Resiliency of Its Portfolio and Operating Strategy for a Second Consecutive Quarter”.

SOURCE BTB Real Estate Investment Trust

BALTIMORE, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — For most Americans, 2020 has been a year filled with tremendous challenges and changes, especially as it relates to health and wellness. To better understand the impact the pandemic is having on New Year’s resolutions for 2021, Medifast (NYSE: MED) conducted a consumer study on behalf of OPTAVIA®, its fast-growing health and wellness community focused on healthy habit creation. The study surveyed 1,414 U.S. adults* to explore the adjustments they’ve made to their routines in 2020 and how they’re planning to approach health and wellness in 2021.

Findings show nearly two thirds (63%) of Americans have already adopted new, positive health routines since March, implying that the pandemic has inspired respondents to prioritize their health year-round. Many of the changes Americans made suggest they are treating their health more holistically by focusing on measures like exercising for the mental health boost it can provide (24%), eating healthier (23%), being more mindful (22%) and getting better sleep (20%). In fact:

• Three out of five (61%) are looking to prioritize healthy eating habits over work-life balance in 2021.
• 70% of Americans would rather get quality sleep each night than meet a fitness goal in 2021.
• Two out of five (43%) Americans reported that the pandemic has changed their perspective on what it means to have a healthy mind.
• More than half of Americans ages 18-34 agree that the pandemic has changed the way they are thinking about (54%) and prioritizing (55%) their health and wellbeing for 2021.

Nearly all (96%) respondents who made positive health-related changes amid the pandemic reported that they plan to continue embracing healthy habits in 2021. However, 74% of people report that they need support to maintain healthy habits as the pandemic continues, underscoring the growing importance of a reliable support system.

Supporting Quotes


Dan Chard, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Medifast


“The unprecedented nature of this year has accelerated a shift in how Americans view their health and wellness. Instead of making grandiose changes on January 1, people are prioritizing their health year-round and taking a more holistic approach to wellness. Based on these survey findings, we believe this shift will continue into the future.”

Dr. Wayne Scott Andersen (Dr. A),

OPTA

VIA Co-Founder, Independent

OPTA

VIA Coach and
New York Times
Bestselling Author
“It’s clear people are now thinking about health and wellbeing more holistically. However, instead of trying to eliminate destructive habits or set overly ambitious goals destined to be abandoned, the key to reaching your health goals in 2021 is to focus on positive, small behavior changes that can add up to lifelong healthy habits.”

About Medifast®:




Medifast (NYSE: MED) is the global company behind one of the fastest-growing health and wellness communities, OPTAVIA®, which offers scientifically developed products, clinically proven plans and the support of Coaches and a Community to help Clients achieve Lifelong Transformation, One Healthy Habit at a Time®. Based on nearly 40 years of experience, Medifast has redefined direct selling by combining the best aspects of the model. Its community of thousands of independent OPTAVIA Coaches teach Clients how to develop holistic healthy habits through the proprietary Habits of Health® Transformational System. Medifast is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and ranked second on FORTUNE’s 100 Fastest-Growing Companies list in 2020. The company was also named to Forbes’ 100 Most Trustworthy Companies in America list in 2017. For more information, visit MedifastInc.com or OPTAVIA.com.

*Methodology:
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1,414 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th – 20th October 2020. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18+). The margin of error for this survey is +/- 3% at 95% confidence.

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SOURCE Medifast, Inc.

BRISTOL, Tenn., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Contura Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CTRA), a leading U.S. supplier of metallurgical products for the steel-making industry, today announced promotions within its executive leadership team as part of the company’s long-term succession planning process. 

Contura’s board of directors voted unanimously to promote Andy Eidson to president and chief financial officer, effective December 14, 2020. Eidson will continue his existing duties as chief financial officer along with new responsibilities as president. Additionally, the board voted unanimously to promote Roger Nicholson to executive vice president, chief administrative officer, general counsel and secretary, and Dan Horn to executive vice president of sales, both effective on December 14, 2020. In addition to his promotion, Horn will become a Section 16 officer of the company.  

Contura’s chairman and chief executive officer David Stetson praised the decisions of the board. “As we look at our long-range planning to solidify the sustainability and future success of the company, I am pleased to announce these promotions among our executive team,” Stetson said. “Both Roger and Dan deserve additional recognition for the excellent jobs they have done within their current roles, and promoting Andy to serve as president is both an accurate reflection of the value he currently brings to the organization and a vote of confidence in his ability to continue enhancing his leadership capabilities. Along with chief operating officer Jason Whitehead, these individuals make up an outstanding executive management team. I look forward to continuing to work alongside them as we execute the company’s strategy well into the future.”

Eidson has served as executive vice president and chief financial officer for Contura since its July 2016 inception, and he previously held the same role at Alpha Natural Resources. Prior to joining the executive leadership team at Alpha, Eidson served in a number of management roles for the company in strategy, business development, and mergers and acquisitions.

“I’ve been blessed with some incredible opportunities over the course of my career, and I am excited for this chance to dig into the broader business of this great company,” Eidson said of his new role. “I believe the men and women who make up the Contura workforce are the best in the business, and I consider it an honor to serve alongside such a talented group of professionals. I welcome the opportunity to continue partnering with our top-notch executive team to achieve our strategic initiatives and keep moving the company forward.”

Nicholson has served as executive vice president, general counsel and secretary of Contura since December 2019. Prior to joining Contura, he practiced law as a member of Steptoe & Johnson PLLC’s Charleston office and served in various senior executive legal roles in private practice.

Horn has served as president of Contura Coal Sales, LLC since December 2019 and has led metallurgical coal sales for the company. He previously served in a similar role for Alpha Natural Resources, where he led North American and export sales for more than a decade.  

ABOUT CONTURA ENERGY

Contura Energy (NYSE: CTRA) is a Tennessee-based coal supplier with affiliate mining operations across Virginia and West Virginia. With customers across the globe, high-quality reserves and significant port capacity, Contura Energy reliably supplies metallurgical coal to produce steel. For more information, visit


www.conturaenergy.com


.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release includes forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on Contura’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. These factors are difficult to predict accurately and may be beyond Contura’s control. Forward-looking statements in this news release or elsewhere speak only as of the date made. New uncertainties and risks arise from time to time, and it is impossible for Contura to predict these events or how they may affect Contura. Except as required by law, Contura has no duty to, and does not intend to, update or revise the forward-looking statements in this news release or elsewhere after the date this release is issued. In light of these risks and uncertainties, investors should keep in mind that results, events or developments discussed in any forward-looking statement made in this news release may not occur.

INVESTOR CONTACT


[email protected]

Alex Rotonen, CFA
423.956.6882

MEDIA CONTACT


[email protected]

Emily O’Quinn

423.573.0369

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SOURCE Contura Energy, Inc.

BETHESDA, Md., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — As part of ongoing steps to help instill confidence and provide exceptional experiences and solutions for meeting professionals and attendees, Marriott International has identified health protocol options, including COVID-19 testing, which meeting professionals may select for group meetings at certain Marriott branded hotels in the United States beginning in January 2021. These optional health protocols build upon initiatives already in place as part of the recent launch of Connect with Confidence, a program empowering meeting professionals to identify and tailor solutions that best meet the needs of their attendees.  

Meeting professionals may select optional health protocols for meetings and events at Gaylord Hotels and Resorts in Florida, Tennessee, Texas, and Colorado as soon as January 2021. In the weeks that follow, the health protocols are expected to be available for selection at certain other Marriott branded hotels throughout the United States.

Optional health protocols for meeting professionals to consider include:

• Self-administered COVID-19 tests taken by the guest prior to travel
• COVID-19 testing administered by a third-party testing provider on site at the hotel
• Daily and/or pre-arrival health screening questions via a dedicated mobile application
• Daily temperature checks to enter the event area

Marriott introduced its Global Cleanliness Council and Commitment to Clean earlier this year. The new health options will supplement existing protocols and features already in place at Marriott hotels in the United States, including guest and associate face covering requirements, social distancing policies, reduced seating capacity for meetings, frequent cleaning of high-touch areas, hand sanitizing stations throughout the hotel, mobile technology and hybrid meeting options.

“These new health protocols provide options for meeting professionals as they plan and host meetings, conferences, and events,” said Tammy Routh, Senior Vice President, Global Sales Organization for Marriott International. “Building upon the work of our Global Cleanliness Council, we engaged industry-leading experts and through a thorough review process, identified third party providers capable of offering the health protocols that meeting professionals want and need for future events.”  

In August, Marriott announced digital content and best practices to help meeting professionals execute future events. In November, the first in a global series of hybrid virtual and in-person events was held in Virginia, demonstrating how to Connect with Confidence. The event showcased Marriott’s reimagined processes and meetings spaces, while reinforcing the company’s commitment to help meeting professionals in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information and resources related to the enhanced meeting and event offerings, visit www.marriottbonvoyevents.com.

About Marriott International

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 7,500 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 132 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy™, its highly-awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

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SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.

CALGARY, AB, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ – Canadian Pacific Railway Limited (TSX: CP) (NYSE: CP) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Canadian Signals and Communications System Council No. 11 are pleased to announce that they have successfully negotiated a new tentative five-year collective agreement.

“This tentative collective agreement is the result of hard work and good faith negotiating between the IBEW and CP,” said CP President and CEO Keith Creel. “We look forward to its ratification and to five years of continued growth and opportunity with these employees.”

The IBEW represents 360 Signal Maintainers at CP in Canada.

The collective agreement is subject to ratification by union membership.

Note on forward-looking information
This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements concerning expectations, beliefs, plans, goals, objectives, assumptions and statements about possible future events, conditions, and results of operations or performance. Forward-looking information may contain statements with words or headings such as “will”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “should”, “commit” or similar words suggesting future outcomes.

This news release contains forward-looking information relating, but not limited, to, the anticipated ratification of a five-year agreement with IBEW Canadian Signals and Communications System Council No. 11, and anticipated impacts of such agreement on CP’s operations, opportunities and growth prospects.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions, having regard to CP’s experience and its perception of historical trends, and includes, but is not limited to, expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions relating to: the fuel efficiency of railways and CP’s operations; CP’s ability to implement certain initiatives, including emissions targets, scenario analyses, risk mitigation strategies, changes to enterprise risk management and internal carbon pricing mechanisms; future investments in and the availability of carbon emissions-reduction tools and technologies including through CP’s fleet modernization program and technology upgrades; the impacts of existing and planned capital investments; CP’s ability to work with governments and third parties to mitigate the impacts of climate change; North American and global economic growth; commodity demand growth; agricultural production; commodity prices and interest rates; performance of our assets and equipment; applicable laws, regulations and government policies; the availability and cost of labour, services and infrastructure; the satisfaction by third parties of their obligations to CP; the anticipated impacts of the novel strain of coronavirus (and the disease known as COVID-19); and capital investments by third parties. Although CP believes the expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions reflected in the forward-looking information presented herein are reasonable as of the date hereof, there can be no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Current conditions, economic and otherwise, render assumptions, although reasonable when made, subject to greater uncertainty.

Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking information. By its nature, CP’s forward-looking information involves inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward looking information, including, but not limited to, the following factors: changes in business strategies; general North American and global economic, credit and business conditions; risks associated with agricultural production, such as weather conditions and insect populations; the availability and price of energy commodities; the effects of competition and pricing pressures; industry capacity; shifts in market demand; changes in commodity prices; uncertainty surrounding timing and volumes of commodities being shipped via CP; inflation; changes in laws, regulations and government policies, including regulation of rates; changes in taxes and tax rates; potential increases in maintenance and operating costs; changes in fuel prices; uncertainties of investigations, proceedings or other types of claims and litigation; labour disputes; risks and liabilities arising from derailments; transportation of dangerous goods; timing of completion of capital and maintenance projects; currency and interest rate fluctuations; trade restrictions or other changes to international trade arrangements; climate change; various events that could disrupt operations, including severe weather, such as droughts, floods, avalanches and earthquakes, and cybersecurity attacks, as well as security threats and governmental response to them, and technological changes; and the pandemic created by the outbreak of the novel strain of coronavirus (and the disease known as COVID-19) and resulting effects on economic conditions, the demand environment for logistics requirements and energy prices, restrictions imposed by public health authorities or governments, fiscal and monetary policy responses by governments and financial institutions, and disruptions to global supply chains. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. These and other factors are detailed from time to time in reports filed by CP with securities regulators in Canada and the United States. Reference should be made to “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Forward-Looking Statements” in CP’s annual and interim reports on Form 10-K and 10-Q.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, CP undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking information, or the foregoing assumptions and risks affecting such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Canadian Pacific
Canadian Pacific is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to major ports on the west and east coasts. CP provides North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of CP. CP-IR

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SOURCE Canadian Pacific