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Payference is Sage Intacct certified and available on Sage Intacct marketplace

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Dec. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Payference, provider of AI-driven cash flow management solutions for finance and accounting teams, announced today that its cash flow application is immediately available in the Sage Intacct marketplace. Payference helps CFOs and finance teams manage and forecast cash flow with the highest level of accuracy automatically. Payference eliminates the need to manually update spreadsheets and is natively integrated with Sage Intacct and other leading ERP systems.

“We’re excited to offer Sage Intacct customers with autonomous cash flow management and forecasting capabilities,” said Prashant Kumar, Founder and CEO of Payference. “With Payference, customers can extend the investment in Sage Intacct and benefit from intelligent automation of cash flow management, actionable analytics, and an intuitive dashboard. We’re delighted to partner with Sage Intacct to serve mid-market companies.”

“We are pleased to have Payference available on the Sage Intacct marketplace,” said Eileen Wiens, VP of Business Development at Sage Intacct. “With Payference, our customers can confidently enter the future of cash flow management automation, driven by machine learning.”

Payference’s differentiated approach leads to real-time cash visibility and forecasting, resulting in improved and timely business decision making. Through seamless integrations with ERPs such as Sage Intacct and all major banks, Payference combines accounts receivables, accounts payables, purchase orders and bank transactions and uses AI and machine learning algorithms to view and optimize cash flows in real-time.

Payference’s unique proprietary technology, enables a more accurate prediction of cash inflow from the receivables as well as suggests ways to increase cash from payables. Payference helps you manage your receivables including assistance with the collections process.

“Payference has helped increase our productivity through more efficient cash management replacing the manual processes and Excel spreadsheets to manage burn rate and forecast cash,” said Wei Wang, Head of Finance at Ordr Inc. “Payference’s unique approach enables us to focus on higher value items.”

To learn more, visit the Sage Intacct Marketplace: Payference


About


Payference

Based in Silicon Valley, California, Payference’s AI-driven software enables companies to forecast cash flow and optimize working capital, freeing trapped cash flow to the bottom line. Payference’s mission is to provide financial visibility and enable data driven decision-making, while also making financial data easily accessible and understandable for anyone in the organization.

Learn more about Payference by visiting Payference.com. Follow Payference on LinkedIn.

Contact:

[email protected]



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Vantiq Announces Partnership with Infosys for Digital Supply Chain Innovation

Companies to Build Real-time Applications in Logistics, Distribution, Connected Maintenance and Workplace Safety

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Vantiq today announced that it has created an innovation accelerator with Infosys, a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, to help customers quickly build real-time applications for managing digital supply chains. Using pre-built digital domain and development frameworks, the accelerator will enable existing and new customers to rapidly develop innovative real-time applications in logistics and distribution optimization, connected maintenance, modern workplace transformation, real-time compliance and safety management.

The accelerator’s first pre-built framework is for connected maintenance, enabling rapid development of end-to-end systems for real-time railroad condition monitoring, in line with the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration’s safety guidelines. The framework integrates live data streams from multiple wheel sensors and compares that data against safety guidelines. The framework also automates preventive, corrective or prescriptive actions in real time.

Infosys will extend its deep domain expertise and digital-first approach to support the innovation accelerator, in collaboration with Vantiq’s event-driven, edge-native development platform. Working together, the companies will help customers ideate, build and deploy real-time industrial applications in days or weeks, versus months or longer timelines.

“Now, more than ever, industrial businesses need connected real-time applications that can enable innovative strategies, drive new revenue streams, and ensure the safety of people and environments,” said Marty Sprinzen, co-founder and CEO of VANTIQ. “Vantiq and Infosys are excited to open the doors to our new Digital Supply Chain accelerator, where we can bring these powerful real-time applications to market that much faster.”

Ravi Kumar S, President at Infosys, said: “Today, we are seeing an increased need across the software industry for real-time application building to ensure success of many key digital projects. To further accelerate enterprises’ digital transformation agenda, together with Vantiq, we will help digitize the supply chain innovation for clients that will result in enabling smarter real-time economies. Through this collaboration, we will work towards delivering faster digital outcomes for businesses to improve their customer reach, achieving operational efficiency with real-time sensors, and creating immediate and data-driven business impact.”

“E-commerce and expedited demand for goods and services in the digital economy require agile and resilient supply chains,” said Shawn Fitzgerald, Research Director, IDC’s Worldwide Digital Transformation (DX) Strategies. “By enabling low-code development, traditional supply chain processes are transformed through high-productivity applications. In the digital economy, traditional approaches to supply chain software development management are not sufficient nor viable to enable today’s value chains. A great example of dynamic and digitally enabled low-code value chain enablement is this Vantiq and Infosys partnership, providing a jump start to companies looking to transform their supply chains and gain a competitive advantage through scalable low-code development.”

About
Vantiq

Vantiq enables customers to build next-generation applications that combine real-world data and real-time events. Their agile development environment allows complex applications to be created in weeks with minimal coding, taking full advantage of artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing. Vantiq powers a broad array of applications for smart cities, smart buildings, oil and gas, telecom, healthcare and other industries. Vantiq was founded in 2015 by technology veterans Marty Sprinzen and Paul Butterworth, co-founders of Forte Software. Learn more at http://www.vantiq.com.

Media Contacts:

Dave Reddy, Big Valley Marketing for Vantiq, +1 (650) 868-4659, [email protected]



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TRACON Pharmaceuticals Announces Dosing of First Patient in ENVASARC Pivotal Trial

Company Expects Interim Data in Mid-2021

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 10, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TRACON Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:TCON), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of novel targeted cancer therapeutics and utilizing a cost efficient, CRO-independent product development platform to partner with ex-U.S. companies to develop and commercialize innovative products in the U.S., today announced dosing of the first patient in the ENVASARC registration trial.

“We are pleased to initiate dosing in the ENVASARC registration trial of envafolimab in sarcoma,” said Sant Chawla, M.D., Director of the Sarcoma Oncology Center, Santa Monica. “Immunotherapy has radically changed the treatment paradigm for a number of cancers, and we believe envafolimab has the potential to do the same for sarcoma patients who have few treatment options.”

“Dosing the first patient in the ENVASARC registration trial within one year of executing the license to envafolimab fulfills our 2020 expectations for what has been a productive year of clinical development and regulatory interactions for our lead product candidate,” said Charles Theuer, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of TRACON. “We look forward to the availability of interim top-line data from this important study, which we expect in mid-2021.”

About
ENVASARC
(
NCT
04480502
)

Key elements of the ENVASARC registration trial include:

  • Multi-center, open-label, randomized, non-comparative, parallel cohort study at approximately 25 top cancer centers in the United States.
  • Eligible patients will have undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) or myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) and received one or two prior cancer therapies, but no prior immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
  • Planned total enrollment of 160 patients, with 80 patients enrolled into cohort A of treatment with single agent envafolimab and 80 patients enrolled in cohort B of treatment with envafolimab and Yervoy®.
  • Primary endpoint of objective response rate (ORR) with duration of response a key secondary endpoint.
  • Open-label format with blinded independent central review of efficacy endpoint data.

About
Envafolimab

Envafolimab (KN035), a novel, single-domain antibody against PD-L1, is the first subcutaneously injected PD-(L)1 inhibitor to be studied in registration trials. Envafolimab is currently being studied in the ENVASARC Phase 2 registration trial in the U.S. sponsored by TRACON, as well as in a Phase 2 registration trial as a single agent in MSI-H/dMMR advanced solid tumor patients and a Phase 3 registration trial in combination with gemcitabine and oxaliplatin in advanced biliary tract cancer patients in China sponsored by TRACON’s corporate partners, Alphamab Oncology and 3D Medicines. Alphamab Oncology and 3D Medicines submitted an NDA to the NMPA in China for envafolimab in MSI-H/dMMR cancer in November 2020. In the Phase 2 registration trial, the confirmed objective response rate (ORR) by blinded independent central review in MSI-H/dMMR colorectal cancer (CRC) patients treated with envafolimab who failed a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin and irinotecan was 32%, which was similar to the 28% confirmed ORR reported in the Opdivo package insert in MSI-H/dMMR CRC patients who failed a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan and the 33% confirmed ORR reported for Keytruda in MSI-H/dMMR CRC patients who failed a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin and irinotecan in cohort A of KEYNOTE-164.

About TRACON

TRACON develops targeted therapies for cancer utilizing a capital efficient, CRO independent, product development platform. The Company’s clinical-stage pipeline includes: Envafolimab, a subcutaneous PD-L1 single-domain antibody being developed in a registration trial for the treatment of certain sarcomas; TRC253, a small molecule drug candidate for the treatment of prostate cancer; TRC102, a Phase 2 small molecule drug candidate being developed for the treatment of lung cancer and glioblastoma; and TJ004309, a CD73 antibody in Phase 1 development for the treatment of advanced solid tumors. TRACON is actively seeking additional corporate partnerships whereby it leads U.S. regulatory and clinical development and shares in the cost and risk of clinical development and leads U.S. commercialization.  In these partnerships TRACON believes it can serve as a solution for companies without clinical and commercial capabilities in the U.S.  To learn more about TRACON and its product pipeline, visit TRACON’s website at www.traconpharma.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements made in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward‐looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding TRACON’s plans to further develop product candidates, expectations regarding the timing and scope of clinical trials and availability of clinical data, expected development and regulatory milestones and timing thereof, the potential benefits of product candidates, and TRACON’s business development strategy and goals to enter into additional collaborations. Risks that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward‐looking statements include: risks associated with clinical development; whether TRACON or others will be able to complete or initiate clinical trials on TRACON’s expected timelines, if at all, including due to risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic or other pandemics; the fact that future preclinical studies and clinical trials may not be successful or otherwise consistent with results from prior studies; the fact that TRACON has limited control over whether or when third party collaborators complete on-going trials, initiate additional trials or seek regulatory approval of TRACON’s product candidates; the fact that TRACON’s collaboration agreements are subject to early termination; whether TRACON will be able to enter into additional collaboration agreements on favorable terms or at all; potential changes in regulatory requirements in the United States and foreign countries; TRACON’s reliance on third parties for the development of its product candidates, including the conduct of its clinical trials and manufacture of its product candidates; whether TRACON will be able to obtain additional financing; and other risks described in TRACON’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the heading “Risk Factors”. All forward‐looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made and are based on management’s assumptions and estimates as of such date. TRACON undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

Company Contact: Investor Contact:
Mark Wiggins Brian Ritchie
Chief Business Officer LifeSci Advisors LLC
(858) 251-3492 212-915-2578
[email protected] [email protected]



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Savara Provides Pipeline and Business Update

Savara Provides Pipeline and Business Update

Announces Phase 3 AVAIL Trial Missed Primary Endpoint, Stopping Further Development of AeroVanc

Appoints Matt Pauls, Chairman and Interim CEO Since September 2020, Chairman and Permanent CEO

Reduces Operating Expenses to Align with Streamlined Development Programs

Discontinues Development of Apulmiq Program, Focuses Resources on Molgradex in aPAP

Revises Study-Start Guidance for IMPALA 2 Clinical Trial to Q2 2021

AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Savara Inc. (Nasdaq: SVRA), an orphan lung disease company, today provided an update on changes to the Company’s pipeline, leadership, and business operations that are being taken to improve alignment of resources and increase our focus on Molgradex in aPAP and the Phase 3 IMPALA 2 trial.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Savara team,” said Matt Pauls, Chairman and CEO, Savara. “Over the last few months, we have moved decisively and with urgency on our priorities and now enter 2021 focused on our key value driver, Molgradex in aPAP and the flawless and safe execution of the IMPALA 2 trial. Finally, I am excited to continue leading Savara and look forward to working on behalf of the aPAP community while creating shareholder value.”

AVAIL Top Line Results

The Company announced that the Phase 3 trial of AeroVanc (vancomycin hydrochloride inhalation powder) in people living with cystic fibrosis (CF) who have Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) lung infection did not meet the primary endpoint of mean absolute change from baseline in FEV1 percent predicted analyzed sequentially at week 4 (end of cycle 1), week 12 (end of cycle 2), and week 20 (end of cycle 3). A dosing cycle was defined as 28 days of treatment followed by 28 days of observation. According to statistical hierarchy, if the trial did not show a statistically significant improvement in the FEV1, the sequence of analysis ends. Data from the trial showed a mean change from baseline in FEV1 percent predicted compared to placebo of 1.4 at week 4 (p=0.33), 1.3 at week 12 (p=0.33), and 3.0 at week 20 (p=0.07) in the primary analysis population of patients 6-21 years of age. Additionally, treatment with AeroVanc did not result in a reduction in the frequency of pulmonary exacerbations versus placebo. The exacerbation rate per year was 2.3 for both groups (risk ratio 1.0, 95% CI 0.7, 1.4). AeroVanc was generally well tolerated.

“We extend our gratitude to the patients and clinical trial staff who participated in AVAIL,” said Badrul Chowdhury, Chief Medical Officer, Savara. “On behalf of people living with CF, we hope data from the trial will benefit future research of inhaled antibiotics in MRSA lung infections. Unfortunately, based on the AVAIL results, we are discontinuing further development of AeroVanc.”

Operating Expense Reduction

The Company has implemented a plan to reduce overall operating expenses, including a reduction in workforce. While the Company is still in the process of determining final results for the fourth quarter of 2020, it expects to end the year with cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments of approximately $82 million (unaudited) and debt of approximately $25 million.

Apulmiq (Inhaled Ciprofloxacin) in Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis (NCFB)

As part of a pipeline simplification strategy that focuses resources on Molgradex in aPAP and the IMPALA 2 trial, the Company has discontinued the Apulmiq clinical development program.

Phase 3 IMPALA 2 Update

While the Company is working to initiate the Phase 3 IMPALA 2 trial in North America, Europe, and Asia as quickly and as safely as possible, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the trial continues to evolve. To ensure COVID-19 mitigation strategies are in place, the Company today revised guidance on the initiation of IMPALA 2 and now expects the trial to start in Q2 2021, versus the end of Q1 2021.

About the AVAIL Trial

AVAIL is a Phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial designed to compare the efficacy and safety of AeroVanc (vancomycin hydrochloride inhalation powder) with placebo in people living with cystic fibrosis (CF) who have Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) lung infection. Total target enrollment was 200 patients. In March 2020, the Company stopped enrollment due to COVID-19 concerns. The trial enrolled 55 patients in the adult population out of a target of 50 and 133 patients in the primary analysis population (those between 6-21 years of age) out of a target of 150.

During Period 1 of the trial, patients were randomly assigned in a blinded 1:1 fashion to receive either AeroVanc (30 mg) twice daily, or placebo, by inhalation for 24 weeks (or 3 dosing cycles). A dosing cycle was defined as 28 days of treatment followed by 28 days of observation. During Period 2 of the trial, patients received open-label AeroVanc (30 mg) twice daily for an additional 24 weeks (or 3 dosing cycles), to evaluate the long-term safety of AeroVanc.

The primary endpoint is the mean absolute change in FEV1 percent predicted from baseline, which was analyzed sequentially at week 4 (end of cycle 1), week 12 (end of cycle 2) and week 20 (end of cycle 3). Analysis of the primary endpoint was based on patients between 6-21 years of age. Secondary efficacy endpoints included: (i) time-to-use of another antibiotic medication for pulmonary infection, (ii) the number of successful FEV1-response cycles a patient achieves over Period 1 (weeks 4, 12, and 20), (iii) relative change from baseline in FEV1 percent predicted at weeks 4, 12, and 20, (iv) change from baseline CF Questionnaire-Revised scores at weeks 4, 12, and 20 and (v) change from Baseline in CF Respiratory Symptom Diary-Chronic Respiratory Symptom Score scores at weeks 4, 12, and 20.

About Savara

Savara is an orphan lung disease company. Our lead program, Molgradex, is an inhaled granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in Phase 3 development for autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (aPAP). Our management team has significant experience in orphan drug development and pulmonary medicine, identifying unmet needs, and effectively advancing product candidates to approval and commercialization. More information can be found at www.savarapharma.com. (Twitter: @SavaraPharma, LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/savara-pharmaceuticals/).

Forward Looking Statements

Savara cautions you that statements in this press release that are not a description of historical fact are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words referencing future events or circumstances such as “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” and “will,” among others. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding changes being taken to improve alignment of resources and increase our focus on Molgradex in aPAP and the Phase 3 IMPALA 2 trial; that we enter 2021 focused on our key value driver, Molgradex in aPAP and the flawless and safe execution of the IMPALA 2 trial; that Mr. Pauls looks forward to working on behalf of the aPAP community while creating shareholder value; that we hope data from the AVAIL trial will benefit future research of inhaled antibiotics in MRSA lung infections; that we are discontinuing further development of AeroVanc; that the Company expects to end the year with cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments of approximately $82 million (unaudited) and debt of approximately $25 million; and the expected timing of the start of the IMPALA 2 trial. Savara may not actually achieve any of the matters referred to in such forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon Savara’s current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties relating to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and operations, the outcome of our ongoing and planned clinical trials for our product candidates, the ability to project future cash utilization and reserves needed for contingent future liabilities and business operations, the availability of sufficient resources for Savara’s operations and to conduct or continue planned clinical development programs, the ability to obtain the necessary patient enrollment for our product candidates in a timely manner, the ability to successfully develop our product candidates, the risks associated with the process of developing, obtaining regulatory approval for and commercializing drug candidates such as Molgradex that are safe and effective for use as human therapeutics, and the timing and ability of Savara to raise additional capital as needed to fund continued operations. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. For a detailed description of our risks and uncertainties, you are encouraged to review our documents filed with the SEC including our recent filings on Form 8-K, Form 10-K and Form 10-Q. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they were made. Savara undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made, except as may be required by law.

Savara Inc. IR & PR

Anne Erickson ([email protected])

(512) 851-1366

KEYWORDS: Texas United States North America

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

MEDIA:

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IIROC Trading Halt – QETH.U

Canada NewsWire

TORONTO, Dec. 10, 2020 /CNW/ – The following issues have been halted by IIROC:

Company: The Ether Fund

TSX Symbol: QETH.U

All Issues: No

Reason: Pending Closing

Halt Time (ET): 8:00 AM

IIROC can make a decision to impose a temporary suspension (halt) of trading in a security of a publicly-listed company. Trading halts are implemented to ensure a fair and orderly market. IIROC is the national self-regulatory organization which oversees all investment dealers and trading activity on debt and equity marketplaces in Canada.

SOURCE Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) – Halts/Resumptions

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DiaMedica Therapeutics Announces Successful Type B Meeting with FDA for the Study of DM199 in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke

DiaMedica Therapeutics Announces Successful Type B Meeting with FDA for the Study of DM199 in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke

DiaMedica Plans to Submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) Application with to FDA for a Phase 2/3 Study in the First Quarter of 2021

MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
DiaMedica Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq: DMAC) announced that it recently received written responses from the FDA following a Type B Pre-IND meeting request that the Company submitted in October 2020 regarding the Company’s development plan for its product candidate, DM199, in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). DiaMedica believes that the feedback received from the FDA provides a well-defined regulatory pathway and plans to immediately proceed with preparing an IND submission to initiate a Phase 2/3 adaptive trial for the treatment of AIS in the coming months with the objective of commencing participant enrollment in the summer of 2021.

In written responses to the questions provided by DiaMedica, the FDA agreed with DiaMedica’s proposals regarding key elements of a Phase 2/3 trial for DM199 in patients with AIS, including plans for an adaptive trial design with a primary endpoint based upon the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at day 90 and acknowledged that, provided the study results qualify, a single trial may support a Biologics License Application (BLA) submission. Additionally, based upon the clinical and preclinical testing performed to date and currently in process, the FDA did not recommend any additional studies in preparation for an IND submission and initiation of the Company’s planned Phase 2/3 trial.

“We appreciate the thoughtful feedback and guidance from the FDA and acceptance of our proposed design for the Phase 2/3 trial of DM199 in patients with acute ischemic stroke,” said Rick Pauls, President and CEO of DiaMedica. “Following the guidance the FDA provided in the Type B Pre-IND meeting, we are focused on advancing DM199 as a novel treatment for acute ischemic stroke patients who do not have a treatment option available today, with the added advantage of DM199 having a 24-hour treatment window, extending beyond the current 4.5 hour treatment window of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). We look forward to initiating the Phase 2/3 study.”

DiaMedica is preparing a Phase 2/3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. This study is intended to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of DM199 in patients with mild to moderate AIS. The study is expected to enroll approximately 300 to 350 male and female subjects age 18 and over. Enrolled participants must have a diagnosis of mild to moderate acute ischemic stroke (NIHSS scores between 5 and 20), and present within 24 hours of symptom onset. Current plans for the study are to exclude patients with large vessel occlusions, which are eligible for treatment with mechanical thrombectomy, and/or patients eligible for tPA. The Company believes that its targeted study population represents approximately 80% of all AIS patients. Study participants will be dosed with either DM199 or placebo over 21 days with the primary endpoint measured at day 90. In order to increase the probability of a successful outcome, the Company also intends to propose conducting an interim analysis with the potential to adjust the study sample size to ensure proper statistical powering, if necessary. The primary endpoint for the Phase 2/3 trial will be the mRS. Secondary endpoints are anticipated to include stroke recurrence and standard stroke measures, including National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Barthel Index.

About DM199 for Acute Ischemic Stroke

On average, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds and someone dies from a stroke every four minutes. AIS is the leading cause of adult disability in the United States and costs the United States an estimated $34 billion annually, including the cost of health care services, medications and lost productivity.

The Company’s recently completed ReMEDy Phase 2 study in AIS (N=91), in addition to meeting its primary safety and tolerability endpoints, a statistically significant 86% (P=0.028) reduction in the number of participants with severe recurrent strokes was observed in the active treatment group (N=1) compared to placebo (N=7), a potentially transformative outcome given that approximately 25% of the 795,000 strokes occurring each year in the United States are recurrent strokes.

Additionally, in a subset of participants in the ReMEDy study that most closely represents the proposed targeted study population for DM199 (N=46), 36% of participants receiving DM199 (N=25) achieved a full or nearly full recovery at 90 days, an NIHSS score of 0-1, compared to 14% in the placebo group (N=21), an absolute difference of 22%. This subset was comprised of those participants not receiving a mechanical thrombectomy, indicative of a large vessel occlusion, prior to enrollment. Additionally, deaths in the DM199 group (N=25) were 12% compared to 24% in the placebo group (N=21), an absolute reduction of 50%. The combination of improvement in recoveries and reduction in recurrent strokes creates an encouraging signal for the potential benefit of DM199 to AIS patients and supports the further investigation of DM199 in AIS.

About DM199

DM199 is a recombinant (synthetic) form of the human tissue kallikrein-1 (KLK1). KLK1 is a serine protease (protein) that plays an important role in the regulation of diverse physiological processes including blood flow, inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress and neurogenesis via a molecular mechanism that increases production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin. KLK1 deficiency may play a role in multiple vascular and fibrotic diseases including stroke, stroke recurrences, kidney diseases, vascular dementia and resistant hypertension where current treatment options are limited or ineffective. DiaMedica is the first company to have developed a recombinant form of the KLK1 protein for clinical use. The KLK1 protein, produced from human urine and porcine pancreas, has been used to treat patients in Japan, China and Korea for decades. DM199 is currently being studied in patients with acute ischemic stroke and chronic kidney diseases.

About DiaMedica Therapeutics Inc.

DiaMedica Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel treatments for neurological and chronic kidney diseases. DiaMedica’s shares are listed on The Nasdaq Capital Market under the trading symbol “DMAC.” For more information, please visit www.diamedica.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and forward-looking information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect management’s current expectations. When used in this press release, the words “plans,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “expects,” “proposed,” “continue,” “will,” “may” or “should,” the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology and the use of future dates are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include statements regarding timing for the submission of an IND application with the FDA for a Phase 2/3 trial and the anticipated clinical benefits and success of DM199. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, among others, the possibility of unfavorable results from additional clinical trials of DM199 or from existing or new data received from additional ongoing and future studies of DM199; the risk that existing preclinical and clinical data may not be predictive of the results of ongoing or later clinical trials; DiaMedica’s plans to develop, obtain regulatory approval for and commercialize its DM199 product candidate for the treatment of AIS and its expectations regarding the benefits of DM199; DiaMedica’s ability to conduct successful clinical testing of DM199 and within its anticipated parameters, costs and timeframes; the perceived benefits of DM199 over existing treatment options; the potential direct or indirect impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on DiaMedica’s business and its clinical trials in particular; DiaMedica’s reliance on collaboration with third parties to conduct clinical trials; DiaMedica’s ability to continue to obtain funding for its operations, including funding necessary to complete planned clinical trials and obtain regulatory approvals for DM199 for AIS, and the risks identified under the heading “Item. 1A. Risk Factors” in DiaMedica’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, and subsequent SEC filings by DiaMedica, including its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2020. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of DiaMedica as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While DiaMedica may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

Scott Kellen

Chief Financial Officer

Phone: (763) 496-5118

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Minnesota United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Biotechnology FDA Hospitals Health Pharmaceutical

MEDIA:

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United Makes Bold Environmental Commitment Unmatched by Any Airline; Pledges 100% Green by Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions 100% by 2050

United will meet this ambitious goal by making industry-leading investments in new technology and sustainable fuels – not from buying carbon offsets

Airline to make a multimillion-dollar investment in revolutionary atmospheric carbon capture technology that is expected to capture and store millions of metric tons of CO2 per year

PR Newswire

CHICAGO, Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — United Airlines today is taking its most ambitious step yet in leading the fight against climate change: pledging to become 100% green by reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 100% by 2050. United, which in 2018 became the first U.S. airline to commit to reducing its GHG emissions by 50% by 2050, will advance towards carbon neutrality by committing to a multimillion-dollar investment in revolutionary atmospheric carbon capture technology known as Direct Air Capture  – rather than indirect measures like carbon-offsetting – in addition to continuing to invest in the development and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). With this unprecedented announcement, United becomes the first airline in the world to announce a commitment to invest in Direct Air Capture technology.

“As the leader of one of the world’s largest airlines, I recognize our responsibility in contributing to fight climate change, as well as our responsibility to solve it,” said Scott Kirby, United’s chief executive officer. “These game-changing technologies will significantly reduce our emissions, and measurably reduce the speed of climate change – because buying carbon offsets alone is just not enough. Perhaps most importantly, we’re not just doing it to meet our own sustainability goal; we’re doing it to drive the positive change our entire industry requires so that every airline can eventually join us and do the same.”

Investment in Direct Air Capture Technology

Rather than simply taking a conventional approach to decarbonization by relying solely on the purchase of carbon offsets, United intends to make a multimillion-dollar investment in 1PointFive, Inc., a partnership between Oxy Low Carbon Ventures, a subsidiary of Occidental (NYSE:OXY), and Rusheen Capital Management. 1PointFive’s mission is to curb the rise in global temperatures by physically removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air using Direct Air Capture technology licensed from Carbon Engineering.

Direct Air Capture technology is one of the few proven ways to physically correct for aircraft emissions, and can scale to capture millions and potentially billions of metric tons of CO2 per year. The captured CO2 will then be permanently, safely and securely stored deep underground by Occidental, a process certified by independent third parties. The commitment – the first to be announced in the aviation industry – will help 1PointFive build the first industrial-sized Direct Air Capture plant in the United States. A single plant is expected to capture and permanently sequester one million tons of CO2 each year, the equivalent of the work of 40 million trees, but covering a land area about 3,000 times smaller.

Investments in Sustainable Aviation Fuel

With up to 80% less lifecycle carbon emissions than conventional jet fuel, sustainable aviation fuel is the fastest and most effective way United is reducing its emissions. Among all airlines globally, United holds more than 50% of all publicly announced future purchase commitments to using SAF and has the longest history of using SAF of any U.S. airline. Last year, United renewed its contract with Boston-based World Energy, agreeing to purchase up to 10 million gallons of cost-competitive SAF. United has used this SAF to help sustainably power every flight departing its Los Angeles hub since 2016.

Additionally, United has invested more than $30 million in California-based sustainable fuel producer Fulcrum BioEnergy, which remains the single largest investment by any airline globally in a sustainable fuel producer.

Since 2016, United has used the most SAF of any airline globally and has flown:

  • 26 million passengers on flights powered with a SAF blend
  • 44 billion passenger-miles on flights powered with a SAF blend
  • 215,000 flights powered with a SAF blend

United’s Commitment to the Environment

United’s commitment to becoming carbon-neutral by 2050 represents yet another leadership position the airline has taken to reduce its impact on the environment. United’s significant environmental achievements include:

  • Becoming the first airline globally to incorporate SAF in regular operations on a continuous basis, marking a significant milestone in the industry by moving beyond test programs and demonstrations to the everyday use of low-carbon fuel in ongoing operations
  • In 2019, we committed $40 million toward an investment initiative focused on accelerating the development of SAF and other decarbonization technologies
  • Operating the Flight for the Planet in 2019, which represented the most-eco-friendly commercial flight of its kind in the history of commercial aviation
  • Becoming the first airline to fly with Boeing’s Split Scimitar winglets, which reduce fuel consumption by an additional 2% versus standard winglets; United is the largest Scimitar winglet operator today, with nearly 400 aircraft equipped with these winglets
  • Becoming the first U.S. airline to repurpose items from the carrier’s international premium cabin amenity kits and partnering with Clean the World to donate hygiene products to those in critical need
  • Eliminating non-recyclable plastic stirring sticks and cocktail picks on aircraft and replacing them with a more environmentally friendly product made of 100% bamboo
  • Continuing to replace its eligible ground equipment with cleaner, electrically powered alternatives, with nearly 45% of the fleet converted to date

United’s Award-Winning Eco-Skies Program

United’s award-winning Eco-Skies program represents the company’s commitment to the environment and the actions taken every day to create a more sustainable future. Earlier this month, the Carbon Disclosure Project named United as the only airline globally to its 2020 ‘A List’ for the airline’s actions to cut emissions, mitigate climate risks and develop the low-carbon economy, marking the seventh consecutive year that United had the highest CDP score among U.S. airlines.

In 2017, Air Transport World magazine named United its Eco-Airline of the Year for the second time since the airline launched the Eco-Skies program. Additionally, United ranked No. 1 among global carriers in Newsweek‘s 2017 Global 500 Green Rankings, one of the most recognized environmental performance assessments of the world’s largest publicly traded companies.

For more information on United’s commitment to environmental sustainability, visit united.com/ecoskies.

About United

United’s shared purpose is “Connecting People. Uniting the World.” For more information, visit united.com, follow @United on Twitter and Instagram or connect on Facebook. The common stock of United’s parent, United Airlines Holdings, Inc., is traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol “UAL”.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking and thus reflect our current expectations and beliefs with respect to certain current and future events. Such forward-looking statements are and will be subject to many risks and uncertainties relating to our operations and business environment that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Words such as “expects,” “will,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “indicates,” “remains,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Additionally, forward-looking statements include statements that do not relate solely to historical facts, such as statements which identify uncertainties or trends, discuss the possible future effects of current known trends or uncertainties, or which indicate that the future effects of known trends or uncertainties cannot be predicted, guaranteed or assured. All forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to us on the date of this release. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Our actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements due to numerous factors including, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties set forth under Part I, Item 1A., “Risk Factors,” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, as updated by our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2020, as well as other risks and uncertainties set forth from time to time in the reports we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

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SOURCE United Airlines

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BTB Announces its Distribution for the Month of December 2020

Canada NewsWire

MONTRÉAL, Dec. 10, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ – BTB Real Estate Investment Trust (TSX: BTB.UN) (“BTB” or the “REIT“) announced today that the monthly cash distribution for the month of December 2020 is $0.025per unit, representing $0.30per unit on an annualized basis. The cash distribution will be paid January 15th, 2021 to unitholders of record on December 31st, 2020.

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 10th, 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 30th, 2020 of approximately of $946M.

BTB’S OBJECTIVES

  1. Generate stable monthly cash distributions that are reliable and fiscally beneficial to unitholders;
  2. Grow the Trust’s assets through internal growth and accretive acquisitions in order to increase distributable income and therefore refund distributions;
  3. Optimize the value of its assets through the dynamic management of its properties in order to maximize the long-term value of its properties and therefore, its units.

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.

SOURCE BTB Real Estate Investment Trust

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Braemar Hotels & Resorts Provides Business Update

Monthly Performance and Near Term Outlook Continues to Improve

PR Newswire

DALLAS, Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: BHR) (“Braemar” or the “Company”) today provided an update on its hotel operations. The table provided in this release includes monthly operating information for the Company’s portfolio for the months of October and November.

 


BRAEMAR HOTELS & RESORTS INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MONTHLY OPERATING INFORMATION

(unaudited)


October 2020


Variance to
October 2019


November 2020


Variance to
November 2019


Resort

Number of hotels

8

—

8

—

Occupancy

48.9

%

(33.6)

%

44.9

%

(34.7)

%

Average daily rate

$

341.78

(0.9)

%

$

388.63

15.3

%

RevPAR

$

167.08

(34.2)

%

$

174.58

(24.7)

%

Total hotel revenue (in thousands)

$

13,832

(30.8)

%

$

14,317

(27.9)

%


Urban

Number of hotels

5

—

5

—

Occupancy

19.5

%

(77.9)

%

15.8

%

(80.1)

%

Average daily rate

$

152.37

(42.5)

%

$

140.61

(39.4)

%

RevPAR

$

29.69

(87.3)

%

$

22.15

(88.0)

%

Total hotel revenue (in thousands)

$

2,438

(88.4)

%

$

1,897

(88.2)

%


All

Number of hotels

13

—

13

—

Occupancy

31.2

%

(62.2)

%

27.4

%

(63.5)

%

Average daily rate

$

270.81

(7.0)

%

$

303.03

12.4

%

RevPAR

$

84.58

(64.9)

%

$

83.05

(59.0)

%

Total hotel revenue (in thousands)

$

16,270

(60.3)

%

$

16,214

(54.9)

%

(1) The above information, excluding total hotel revenue, does not include the operations of ten condominium units not owned by the Lake Tahoe Ritz-Carlton.

The Company also announced that as of December 3, 2020, forward bookings for rooms revenue for December 2020 reflect a 39% decrease from the forward bookings for rooms revenue for December 2019, calculated as of the same time in the prior year.  In addition, as of December 3, 2020, forward bookings for rooms revenue for January 2021 reflect a 36% decrease from the forward bookings for rooms revenue for January 2020, calculated as of the same time in the prior year.  As of December 9, 2020, the average daily rate for all forward bookings through March 2021 is over $400. 

“We continue to be pleased with the recovery trends we are seeing at our hotels during these challenging times,” said Richard J. Stockton, Braemar’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Across our entire portfolio, our average daily rate was 12% higher in November than in the same month last year. Total hotel revenue for November was down only 55%, which is 5% better year-over-year than it was in October. Although virus cases have been on the rise lately, we are encouraged by the news regarding vaccines and believe our portfolio is well-positioned as we come out of this pandemic.”

Braemar Hotels & Resorts is a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on investing in luxury hotels and resorts.

Ashford has created an Ashford App for the hospitality REIT investor community. The Ashford App is available for free download at Apple’s App Store and the Google Play Store by searching “Ashford.”

Certain statements and assumptions in this press release contain or are based upon “forward-looking” information and are being made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the federal securities regulations. When we use the words “will likely result,” “may,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “should,” “expect,” “believe,” “intend,” or similar expressions, we intend to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to numerous assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are outside Braemar’s control.

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, including, without limitation: the impact of COVID-19 (including on cancellation rates) and the rate of adoption and efficacy of vaccines to prevent COVID-19 on our business and investment strategy; the ability of the Company’s advisor, Ashford Inc., to continue as a going concern; the timing and outcome of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s investigation; anticipated or expected purchases or sales of assets; our projected operating results; completion of any pending transactions; our understanding of our competition; market trends; projected capital expenditures; and the impact of technology on our operations and business. Such forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions, and expectations of our future performance taking into account all information currently known to us. These beliefs, assumptions, and expectations can change as a result of many potential events or factors, not all of which are known to us. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans, and other objectives may vary materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. You should carefully consider this risk when you make an investment decision concerning our securities. These and other risk factors are more fully discussed in Braemar’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release. The Company can give no assurance that these forward-looking statements will be attained or that any deviation will not occur. We are not obligated to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances, changes in expectations or otherwise.

 

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SOURCE Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc.

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From ‘Zoom Rooms’ to Chef Kitchens: Zillow’s Top 10 Home Trends for 2021

Zillow’s top home trends for 2021 are driven by COVID-era design and home features that will continue to grow in popularity even when the pandemic subsides.

PR Newswire

SEATTLE, Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — We’ve all been there this year — toddlers interrupting Zoom meetings, daydreaming (or Zillow Surfing!) for more space, and shamelessly feeding sourdough starter kits. 2020 has changed the way we live in and outside our homes.

As people rethink their homes’ functionality after spending more time in them, features we never knew we needed — such as a home gym or no-touch appliances — are more important than ever. While public health precautions continue to keep us at home, these features will only become more popular to create spaces that keep our families safe, all while providing an oasis of comfort.

Driven by this new COVID era, Zillow shares top 10 home trends for 2021 that will not only add comfort, but might even add extra value to your home.

‘Zoom Rooms’
A Zillow survey found a desire for a home with a dedicated office tops the list of reasons why Americans working from home say they would consider a move, if they were to continue working remotely at least occasionally. In 2021, people will receive more clarity from their employers about the ability to telecommute moving forward, which could trigger a move to a home with more space.  And, as people tire of working from a kitchen table, they will be wanting a more permanent — and quiet — solution for their at-home desk.

As of November, the number of listings mentioned “home office” or “Zoom room” increased by 48.5% compared to the same time last year. Pennsylvania home builder Berks Homes also says requests for an at-home study in lieu of existing living space more than doubled this year.

‘Homecation’ Amenities
With lots of time and nowhere to go, homeowners are coming up with creative solutions to create vacation-vibes right at home. “Pool” was the top Zillow keyword search term in 2020. “Waterfront” and “dock” also landed in the top ten. Additionally, homeowners may be looking for big and small ways to create a luxury experience at home, from upgrading to a spa-like bathtub or relaxing rain shower. Zillow research shows home buyers paid more for amenities that make their home feel like a retreat. Listings that mentioned a free-standing tub typically sold for 5.5% more than expected, while the listing keyword “spa-inspired” contributed to a 1.8% price premium.

The rise of remote work will allow more homeowners to turn their favorite vacation destination into their hometown. Page views of for-sale listings in areas typically considered vacation destinations – such as Key West, the Jersey Shore and Cape Cod — are up nearly 50% compared to last year.

Intergenerational Living 
Intergenerational living will rise in popularity as young adults and grandparents alike find themselves moving in with family for financial and health reasons. According to Generations United, about one in six Americans currently live in multigenerational households, and this year, the share of young people moving back home reached all-time highs as more Millennials and Gen Z’ers than ever – particularly renters – found themselves packing their bags and moving back in with their parents.

Katie Detwiler, Chief Experience Officer at Berks Homes says this trend is manifesting in how people are designing new construction homes, with more requests than ever before for a finished basement with a full bathroom, and bedroom additions.

Gourmet Kitchens
This year inspired people to break out of their old baking habits and start new hobbies in the kitchen, and in 2021 homeowners will want to level-up from their sourdough obsession to create other culinary masterpieces. A previous Zillow survey1 finds 41% of people value a well-equipped kitchen more than before as a result of social distancing recommendations — and more people will want the space to show off their new culinary skills in the next year.

“We’ve seen an increase in requests for gourmet kitchens,” says Katie Detwiler, Berks Homes’ Chief Experience Officer. “This includes bigger cabinets and island additions so homeowners have the space they need to cook their gourmet meals.” Berks Homes has seen more than 100 more requests for alternate kitchens and island additions this year compared to last.

Backyard Oasis
A yard that is safe and functional has taken on renewed importance — a Zillow survey from the Harris Poll2 found that 41% of people say they value a large outdoor space more as a result of social distancing recommendations.

There are many easy upgrades to make a backyard a relaxing oasis the whole family can enjoy, and in tandem, increase the resale value of your home. Zillow research finds homes mentioning “firepit” in the listing sold for 2.8% more than similar homes, and “outdoor kitchen” sold for 4.5% more. Smart sprinkler systems and outdoor lighting are other features that add a contemporary flare to a backyard that also help your home sell up to 15 days faster than expected.

Smart and Safe Tech
It’s more vital than ever that our homes stay as germ-free as possible, and smart-home technology has come to save the day, with products like touchless appliances, self-cleaning toilets and bidets. And while a lot of these products are niche right now, they will evolve to become the standard in home design. Next year as homeowners can start welcoming guests back inside, they will increasingly seek out creative solutions to keep their spaces as germ-free and chic as possible. 

“Our tech-driven appliances, solid surfaces and smart fixtures have come to the rescue,” says Kerrie Kelly, Zillow home design expert and founder of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab. “Features like voice-activated faucets, robotic vacuums, and electronic-assistant controlled lights have updated the traditional tasks of cooking and cleaning by incorporating thoughtful innovation into home products.”

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly appealing to buyers. A Zillow analysis  found that listings mentioning a smart light in their listing description sold seven days faster than expected, and listings mentioning a smart thermostat sold 6 days faster than expected. Features like a shiny, new touchless faucet will rise in popularity as homeowners prioritize the cleanliness of their home to keep their families safe and germ-free.

Small City Living
Increased opportunity for remote work has pushed many home shoppers to reconsider how and where they want to live. Since there is less need to be close to urban job centers, shoppers in 2021 may opt for wide open spaces and smaller, more affordable communities. This trend is already playing out in search traffic data.

Small cities, such as Borger, Texas, Pierre, S.D. and Vernal, Utah, accounted for the greatest year-over-year growth in out-of-town search traffic, and a dozen markets such as Pierre, SD, Jackson, WY and Hudson, NY saw out-of-town search traffic double this year. Newly pending sales for small cities (population between 54,000 and 137,000) is up 34.3% since last year, and have seen positive year-over-year pending sales since July. Small city living will only continue to rise as telework becomes more permanent and open up homeownership opportunities for renters.

Health and Wellness at Home
People across the country quickly adapted to rapidly changing restrictions, creating fitness clubs or mental wellness spaces in their homes. In November, 4.1% of for-sale listings on Zillow mentioned health and wellness areas in the home. Listings that mentioned “health and wellness” increased starting in summer, peaking in November as lockdown orders resumed and daylight took away precious daylight hours for outdoor activities.

But it’s not just physical health homeowners are prioritizing. The isolation from social activities and loved ones will increase the need for more-private “feng shui” areas — spaces for reflection and meditation to stay mentally fit, as well. Berks Homes have seen floor plans adding an extra bedroom over a garage or in their basement increase this year. These additional private spaces may start to become meditation rooms, or a quiet room to escape the chaos of life.

Pet-Friendly Living
The flexibility of remote work gave many people the opportunity to be home all day, and in turn, made it easier to add a new best friend to their family. According to a Nielsen survey, 20% of respondents in July said they adopted one or more dogs or cats between March and June, up from less than 5% over the same time last year. An increase in furry friends joining families means “pet-friendly” rentals are on the rise, as landlords entice renters with added benefits. Zillow research3 found that 73.1% of rental listings allow pets.

As people welcome more furry family members, Zillow expects they will be looking for pet-friendly features in their next home. A 2020 Zillow analysis found for-sale listings mentioning a pet shower or dog wash in their listing description sold for 5.1% more than similar homes, while listings mentioning a fenced backyard in their listing description sold 6.8 days faster than expected.

Rise in Demand for New Construction
Traffic for new construction homes has increased significantly on Zillow4, up 82% in the third quarter of 2020 compared to the same quarter a year ago, signaling an increasing number of shoppers interested in personalizing their home’s features and living in a new, clean space. A 2020 Zillow survey found5 more than a quarter of buyers who bought a new construction home did so to customize home features, while 37% chose new construction because everything in the home was new and never used.


About Zillow Group:


Zillow Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: Z and ZG) is reimagining real estate to make it easier to unlock life’s next chapter. 

As the most-visited real estate website in the U.S., Zillow® and its affiliates offer customers an on-demand experience for selling, buying, renting or financing with transparency and nearly seamless end-to-end service. Zillow Offers® buys and sells homes directly in dozens of markets across the country, allowing sellers control over their timeline. Zillow Home Loans™, our affiliate lender, provides our customers with an easy option to get pre-approved and secure financing for their next home purchase. Zillow recently launched Zillow Homes, Inc., a licensed brokerage entity, to streamline Zillow Offers transactions.  

Zillow Group’s affiliates and subsidiaries include Zillow®, Zillow Offers®, Zillow Premier Agent®, Zillow Home Loans™, Zillow Closing Services™, Zillow Homes, Inc., Trulia®, Out East®, StreetEasy® and HotPads®. Zillow Home Loans, LLC is an Equal Housing Lender, NMLS #10287 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).  

1 This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Zillow from May 4-6, 2020 among 2,065 U.S. adults ages 18 and older. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact [email protected].
2 See Footnote (1)
3 Rental Listings Mentioning “Pet-Friendly” on Zillow as of November 2020
4 New Construction page views on Zillow are measured with Google Analytics
5 Zillow Group Population Science partnered with independent market research and data analytics firm YouGov® to conduct a nationally representative, online quantitative survey of 3000 buyers, 3000 sellers, 3000 renters that moved in the past year, and 3000 homeowners. The self-administered study was fielded between March 31 and April 21, 2020. A supplemental survey of new construction buyers was fielded between April 21 and May 5, 2020 to achieve a total sample of 1000 new construction buyers.

 

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SOURCE Zillow