Takeda Further Enables Hemophilia A Personalized Care With Launch of myPKFiT® Software for ADYNOVATE® [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant), PEGylated]

Takeda Further Enables Hemophilia A Personalized Care With Launch of myPKFiT® Software for ADYNOVATE® [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant), PEGylated]

First and only FDA-approved pharmacokinetic dosing software and patient app available for ADYNOVATE patients 12 and older and weighing at least 29 kg allows healthcare professionals to help provide personalized dosing regimens1

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. and OSAKA, Japan–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE:4502/NYSE:TAK) (“Takeda”) today announced the U.S. availability of myPKFiT® for ADYNOVATE® [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant), PEGylated], a web-based software and mobile application that is the first and only pharmacokinetic (PK)-dosing software approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hemophilia A patients 12 and older and weighing at least 29 kg treated with ADYNOVATE.1

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201202005028/en/

Sample PK Profile on the myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE HCP software. 2 (Photo: Business Wire)

Sample PK Profile on the myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE HCP software. 2 (Photo: Business Wire)

The myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE software leverages a streamlined approach to estimating PK curves, a key measure for assessing drug exposure over time. 2,3 With this software, healthcare professionals (HCPs) can estimate a full PK curve with as few as two measurable blood samples, compared to 9 to 11 as recommended by guidelines from the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH). 2,4 HCPs can then create a visual depiction of the PK curve using this patient information and sample data. 2

“More than ever, hemophilia management is driven by personalization, as we attempt to take a customized approach to care for each individual patient,” said Dr. Cindy Leissinger, Professor and Director of the Louisiana Center for Bleeding and Clotting Disorders at Tulane University. “It’s important for healthcare professionals and patients to have access to treatment options that help them manage care and prevent bleeding. With the FDA approval of myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE, patients will have another option available to them as they work closely with their healthcare professional to tailor their treatment regimen to their needs.”

The myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE software for HCPs is accompanied by a patient app for Apple and Android smartphone devices that allows users to log and track bleeds and infusions while also estimating their current level of factor VIII (FVIII),allowing them to structure their lifestyle and activities to align with their relevant level of FVIII coverage. 2,5

“myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE underscores our commitment to delivering personalized approaches to help manage hemophilia A,” said Michael Denne, Vice President of U.S. Medical, Hematology and Rare Disease at Takeda. “The ability to adjust activity and lifestyle decisions based on estimated FVIII coverage is a step toward educating patients so their treatment can be personalized to their needs. That, for us, is the goal for PK-focused dosing to allow people to get the most out of their treatment regimen.”

myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE was granted approval by the FDA in January 2020.1 Similarly, the FDA granted approval to myPKFiT for ADVATE® [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant)], a web-based software that aids healthcare professionals in personalizing a patient’s prophylaxis dose and schedule of ADVATE, in 2017 and the patient application became available in August 2018.6

myPKFiT is Rx only. For safe and proper use of the software and mobile app, please refer to the complete instructions for use in the respective User Manuals.

myPKFiT for ADVATE [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant)] and ADYNOVATE [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant), PEGylated] Intended Use

  • The myPKFiT software is intended for use by licensed healthcare professionals (HCPs) who are familiar with hemophilia care. The myPKFiT software can be used to generate ADVATE or ADYNOVATE dosage amount and frequency recommendations using an individual patient’s age and body weight information and local laboratory FVIII one-stage clotting activity measurements of sparse samples collected from that patient. For ADVATE, myPKFiT is intended to be used with patients 16 years of age or older and body weight of 45 kg or greater. For ADYNOVATE, myPKFiT is intended to be used with patients 12 years of age or older and body weight of 29 kg or greater.
  • For ADVATE, a minimum of two sparse sampling points are required at the recommended 3-4 hours (± 30 minutes) and at 24-32 hours (±1 hour) post-infusion. For ADYNOVATE, a minimum of two sparse sampling points are required at the recommended 3 hours (± 30 minutes) and at 48 hours (±2 hours) and/or 72 hours (±2 hours).
  • HCPs will also be able to evaluate various prophylaxis dose regimens tailored to an individual patient’s needs and treatment plan.
  • The software output may be used to guide decisions on appropriate ADVATE or ADYNOVATE dose and infusion intervals to maintain FVIII activity levels at or above a user specified minimum FVIII activity level between 1% to 3% above natural baseline for an individual patient in accordance with the FDA-approved dosing recommendations provided in the ADVATE or ADYNOVATE Prescribing Information (PI).
  • myPKFiT should only be used to evaluate prophylactic dosing regimens for hemophilia A patients treated with ADVATE or ADYNOVATE, as per their respective Prescribing Information (PI).
  • myPKFiT is not indicated for the treatment of von Willebrand disease. myPKFiT should not be used for patients who have developed neutralizing antibody (inhibitor) to FVIII products.

ADYNOVATE [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant), PEGylated] and ADVATE [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant)] Important Information

Indications and Limitation of Use

ADYNOVATE and ADVATE are each a human, recombinant antihemophilic factor indicated in children and adults with hemophilia A (congenital factor VIII deficiency) for:

  • On-demand treatment and control of bleeding episodes.
  • Perioperative management.
  • Routine prophylaxis to reduce the frequency of bleeding episodes.

ADYNOVATE and ADVATE are not indicated for the treatment of von Willebrand disease.

DETAILED IMPORTANT RISK INFORMATION

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • ADYNOVATE is contraindicated in patients with prior anaphylactic reaction to ADYNOVATE, to its parent molecule, ADVATE, mouse or hamster protein, or to its excipients (e.g. Tris, mannitol, trehalose, glutathione, and/or polysorbate 80).
  • ADVATE is contraindicated in patients who have life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, to mouse or hamster protein or other constituents of the product.

WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions are possible with ADYNOVATE and ADVATE. Allergic-type hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported with ADVATE (which is the parent molecule of ADYNOVATE) and other recombinant antihemophilic factor VIII products. Symptoms include dizziness, paresthesia, rash, flushing, facial swelling, urticaria, dyspnea, pruritus and vomiting. Early signs of hypersensitivity reactions that can progress to anaphylaxis may include angioedema, chest-tightness, dyspnea, wheezing, urticaria and pruritus. Immediately discontinue administration of ADYNOVATE or ADVATE and initiate appropriate emergency treatment if hypersensitivity reactions occur.

Neutralizing Antibodies

Formation of neutralizing antibodies (inhibitors) to factor VIII can occur following administration of ADYNOVATE or ADVATE. Inhibitors have been reported following administration of ADVATE predominantly in previously untreated patients (PUPs) and previously minimally treated patients (MTPs). Monitor all ADYNOVATE and ADVATE patients regularly for the development of factor VIII inhibitors by appropriate clinical observation and laboratory tests. Perform an assay that measures factor VIII inhibitor concentration if the plasma factor VIII level fails to increase as expected, or if bleeding is not controlled with expected dose of ADYNOVATE or ADVATE.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

  • ADVATE Serious Adverse Reactions: Serious adverse reactions seen with ADVATE are hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, and the development of high-titer inhibitors necessitating alternative treatments to factor VIII.
  • ADVATE Common Adverse Reactions (>5% of subjects): The most common adverse reactions observed in clinical trials were pyrexia, headache, cough, nasopharyngitis, arthralgia, vomiting, upper respiratory tract infection, limb injury, nasal congestion and diarrhea.
  • ADYNOVATE Common Adverse Reactions (>1% of subjects): The most common adverse reactions reported in clinical studies were headache and nausea.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

For additional safety information, click here for ADYNOVATE Prescribing Information, or here for ADVATE Prescribing Information.

About Hemophilia A

Hemophilia A, the most common type of hemophilia, is a rare bleeding disorder that causes longer-than-normal bleeding due to lack of clotting factor VIII in the blood.7 The severity of hemophilia A is determined by the amount of factor in the blood, with more severity associated with lower amounts of factor.8 More than half of patients with hemophilia A have the severe form of the condition.8 Hemophilia primarily affects males, with an incidence of one in 5,000 male births in the United States. 9

References

  1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE Healthcare Professionals and Patients Mobile Application Supplement Approval. January 2, 2020.
  2. myPKFiT for Healthcare Professionals v3.3 User Manual. Takeda, Inc. 2020.
  3. Gustafson DL and Bradshaw-Pierce EL. Fundamental Concepts in Clinical Pharmacology. M. Hidalgo et al. (eds.), Principles of Anticancer Drug Development, Cancer Drug Discovery and Development, DOI 10.1007/978-1-4419-7358-0_2. Accessible at: http://media.axon.es/pdf/83236_2.pdf
  4. Lee M et al. “Scientific and Standardization Committee Communication The Design and Analysis of Pharmacokinetic Studies of Coagulation Factors.” ISTH Website. https://c.ymcdn.com/sites/www.isth.org/resource/group/d4a6f49a-f4ec-450f-9e0f-7be9f0c2ab2e/official_communications/fviiipharmaco.pdf.
  5. myPKFiT for Patients Mobile Application v2.1 User Manual. Takeda, Inc. 2020.
  6. Takeda. “Shire receives FDA clearance for myPKFiT™ for Advate® [Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant)] to help personalize care for hemophilia A.” Takeda Newsroom. https://www.takeda.com/newsroom/shire-news-releases/2017/abhvp5/. Accessed February 2020.
  7. World Federation of Hemophilia. “What is hemophilia?” World Federation of Hemophilia website. http://www.wfh.org/en/page.aspx?pid=646. Accessed February 2020.
  8. National Hemophilia Foundation. “Hemophilia A.” National Hemophilia Foundation website. https://www.hemophilia.org/Bleeding-Disorders/Types-of-Bleeding-Disorders/Hemophilia-A. Accessed February 2020.
  9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Hemophilia Data & Statistics”. CDC website. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hemophilia/data.html Accessed February 2020.

About Takeda Hematology

Following its recent acquisition of Shire, Takeda is a leader in hemophilia with the longest heritage and market-leading portfolio, backed by established safety and efficacy profiles with decades of real-world experience. We have 70+ years driving innovation for patients9 and a broad portfolio of 11 products across multiple bleeding disorders.10 Our experience as leaders in hematology means we are well prepared to meet today’s needs as we pursue future developments in the care of bleeding disorders. Together with the hematology community, we are raising expectations for the future, including earlier diagnosis, earlier and full protection against bleeds, and more personalized patient care.

About Takeda Pharmaceutical Company

Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE:4502/NYSE:TAK) is a global, values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical leader headquartered in Japan, committed to bringing Better Health and a Brighter Future to patients by translating science into highly-innovative medicines. Takeda focuses its R&D efforts on four therapeutic areas: Oncology, Rare Diseases, Neuroscience, and Gastroenterology (GI)and. We also make targeted R&D investments in Plasma-Derived Therapies and Vaccines. We are focusing on developing highly innovative medicines that contribute to making a difference in people’s lives by advancing the frontier of new treatment options and leveraging our enhanced collaborative R&D engine and capabilities to create a robust, modality-diverse pipeline. Our employees are committed to improving quality of life for patients and to working with our partners in healthcare in approximately 80 countries.

For more information, visit https://www.takeda.com.

Important Notice

For the purposes of this notice, “press release” means this document, any oral presentation, any question and answer session and any written or oral material discussed or distributed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) regarding this release. This press release (including any oral briefing and any question-and-answer in connection with it) is not intended to, and does not constitute, represent or form part of any offer, invitation or solicitation of any offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction. No shares or other securities are being offered to the public by means of this press release. No offering of securities shall be made in the United States except pursuant to registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom. This press release is being given (together with any further information which may be provided to the recipient) on the condition that it is for use by the recipient for information purposes only (and not for the evaluation of any investment, acquisition, disposal or any other transaction). Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws.

The companies in which Takeda directly and indirectly owns investments are separate entities. In this press release, “Takeda” is sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Takeda and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and any materials distributed in connection with this press release may contain forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions regarding Takeda’s future business, future position and results of operations, including estimates, forecasts, targets and plans for Takeda. Without limitation, forward-looking statements often include words such as “targets”, “plans”, “believes”, “hopes”, “continues”, “expects”, “aims”, “intends”, “ensures”, “will”, “may”, “should”, “would”, “could” “anticipates”, “estimates”, “projects” or similar expressions or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements in this document are based on Takeda’s estimates and assumptions only as of the date hereof. Such forward-looking statements do not represent any guarantee by Takeda or its management of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including but not limited to: the economic circumstances surrounding Takeda’s global business, including general economic conditions in Japan and the United States; competitive pressures and developments; changes to applicable laws and regulations; the success of or failure of product development programs; decisions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; fluctuations in interest and currency exchange rates; claims or concerns regarding the safety or efficacy of marketed products or product candidates; the timing and impact of post-merger integration efforts with acquired companies; and the ability to divest assets that are not core to Takeda’s operations and the timing of any such divestment(s), any of which may cause Takeda’s actual results, performance, achievements or financial position to be materially different from any future results, performance, achievements or financial position expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For more information on these and other factors which may affect Takeda’s results, performance, achievements, or financial position, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors” in Takeda’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and Takeda’s other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, available on Takeda’s website at: https://www.takeda.com/investors/reports/sec-filings/ or at www.sec.gov. Future results, performance, achievements or financial position of Takeda could differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements. Persons receiving this press release should not rely unduly on any forward-looking statements. Takeda undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule. Past performance is not an indicator of future results and the results of Takeda in this press release may not be indicative of, and are not an estimate, forecast or projection of Takeda’s future results.

Japanese Media

Kazumi Kobayashi

[email protected]

+81 (0) 3-3278-2095

Media outside Japan

David Murdoch

[email protected]

+1 781-482-1741

KEYWORDS: Massachusetts United States Japan North America Asia Pacific

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Sample PK Profile on the myPKFiT for ADYNOVATE HCP software. 2 (Photo: Business Wire)

Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions’ Samir Agarwal Named a 2020 Tech Trendsetter

Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions’ Samir Agarwal Named a 2020 Tech Trendsetter

HousingWire magazine’s annual award showcases excellence in financial technology leadership

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Samir Agarwal, Vice President for Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions’ banking segment, has been named as one of HousingWire magazine’s2020 Tech Trendsetters of the Year.Established in 2019, the Tech Trendsetters Award honors professionals who work to create, innovate, and improve on the technology used in the mortgage and real estate space.

Agarwal manages a team focused on helping banking institutions with less than $10 billion in assets navigate risk management and compliance decisions. He is responsible for overseeing a segment consisting of thousands of clients, providing solutions across multiple banking verticals. Most notably, Agarwal helped guide Compliance Solutions’ work this year in supporting main street lenders’ efforts to help facilitate access of critical Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds to small businesses across the country. By using the company’s TSoftPlus PPP technology offering, lenders were able to help small businesses retain more than one million U.S. workers’ jobs.

“Samir keenly understands the dynamic environment that these institutions face given today’s challenges, which range from historically low interest rates, the growing need for automation and, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, market demand for more ‘distance banking’ options, to name just a few,” said Steven Meirink, Executive Vice President and General Manager for Compliance Solutions. “He has been laser-focused on developing banking solutions that are helping local and regional lenders more effectively scale their operations, processes, and customer-facing offerings to help enable consumers and small business owners achieve important financial goals.”

Agarwal has 20-plus years’ experience as an executive-level, strategic financial services leader delivering exceptional results. Before joining Wolters Kluwer in 2017, he worked in executive roles with IBM, Assurant, and JP Morgan Chase, where he served as executive director in its consumer mortgage division.

At Wolters Kluwer, Agarwal has tapped his extensive product development background to create award-winning, market-differentiating banking offerings. Among those solutions are Vanceo Mortgage, a system specially developed to help smaller lenders manage and document a loan, and Online Loan Applications (OLA), a technology designed for smaller lenders seeking to extend their online/digital reach and provide a better customer experience for online lending inquiries.

Wolters Kluwer Compliance Solutions is a market leader and trusted provider of risk management and regulatory compliance solutions and services to U.S. banks and credit unions, insurers and securities firms. The business, which sits within Wolters Kluwer’s Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) division, helps these financial institutions efficiently manage risk and regulatory compliance obligations, and gain the insights needed to focus on better serving their customers and growing their business.

Wolters Kluwer’s GRC division provides an array of expert solutions to help U.S financial institutions manage regulatory and risk obligations, including customized offerings to address COVID-19 challenges. Compliance Solutions’ Paycheck Protection Program Supported by TSoftPlus™helps lenders’ customers access critical stimulus funding. Wolters Kluwer Lien Solutions’ iLien for Main Street helps lenders optimize their due diligence and lien management efforts when securing loans for small and medium-sized businesses under the Main Street Lending Program.

About Wolters Kluwer Governance, Risk & Compliance

Governance, Risk & Compliance is a division of Wolters Kluwer, which provides legal and banking professionals with solutions to help ensure compliance with ever-changing regulatory and legal obligations, manage risk, increase efficiency, and produce better business outcomes. GRC offers a portfolio of technology-enabled expert services and solutions focused on legal entity compliance, legal operations management, banking product compliance, and banking regulatory compliance.

Wolters Kluwer (AEX: WKL) is a global leader in information services and solutions for professionals in the health, tax and accounting, risk and compliance, finance and legal sectors. Wolters Kluwer reported 2019 annual revenues of €4.6 billion. The company, headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands, serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries and employs 19,000 people worldwide.

Paul Lyon

Director of Global Corporate Communications, Banking & Regulatory Compliance

Governance, Risk & Compliance

Wolters Kluwer

Office +44 20 3197 6586

[email protected]

David Feider

Corporate Communications Manager, Banking & Regulatory Compliance

Governance, Risk & Compliance Division

Wolters Kluwer

Tel: +1 612-852-7966

[email protected]

On Twitter: @davidafeider

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Interactive Brokers Group to Present at Goldman Sachs US Financial Services Conference

Interactive Brokers Group to Present at Goldman Sachs US Financial Services Conference

GREENWICH, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Interactive Brokers Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: IBKR) announces that its Chairman Thomas Peterffy will speak at the Goldman Sachs US Financial Services Conference on Tuesday, December 8th at 11:20 a.m. ET.

Mr. Peterffy’s presentation can be heard live via webcast on the Internet accessible from the company’s website, www.interactivebrokers.com/ir. Participants should log in approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the presentation. A replay will also be available on the company’s website.

About Interactive Brokers Group, Inc.:

Interactive Brokers Group affiliates provide automated trade execution and custody of securities, commodities and foreign exchange around the clock on over 135 markets in numerous countries and currencies, from a single IBKR Integrated Investment Account to clients worldwide. We service individual investors, hedge funds, proprietary trading groups, financial advisors and introducing brokers. Our four decades of focus on technology and automation has enabled us to equip our clients with a uniquely sophisticated platform to manage their investment portfolios. We strive to provide our clients with advantageous execution prices and trading, risk and portfolio management tools, research facilities and investment products, all at low or no cost, positioning them to achieve superior returns on investments. Barron’s ranked Interactive Brokers #1 with 5 out of 5 stars in its February 24, 2020, Best Online Broker Review.

For Interactive Brokers Group, Inc. Investors: Nancy Stuebe, 203-618-4070 or Media: Kalen Holliday, 203-618-4069.

 

KEYWORDS: Connecticut United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Professional Services Finance

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Comtech Telecommunications Corp. Receives $1.0 Million in Delivery Orders for Satellite Earth Station Equipment

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. Receives $1.0 Million in Delivery Orders for Satellite Earth Station Equipment

MELVILLE, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
December 2, 2020– Comtech Telecommunications Corp. (NASDAQ: CMTL) announced today that during its first quarter of fiscal 2021, its Tempe, Arizona-based subsidiary, Comtech EF Data Corp., which is part of Comtech’s Commercial Solutions segment, received $1.0 million in delivery orders in support of a previously awarded $58.8 million indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (“IDIQ”) contract from the U.S. Naval Information Warfare Systems Command. Funded orders received to-date under this IDIQ contract now total $30.7 million.

The delivery orders specified Comtech EF Data’s SLM-5650B Satellite Modems and firmware upgrades. The SLM-5650B Satellite Modem is Comtech EF Data’s latest generation modem product targeted for critical commercial backhaul, government and military applications. The SLM-5650B leverages the heritage and feature set of the SLM-5650A modem. The SLM-5650B supports backwards compatibility/interoperability for existing SLM-5650A networks while providing enhanced performance and an expanded feature set. The commercially available modems will support satellite communications and interoperability across the Navy’s platforms and shore sites.

“We are honored to have the opportunity to continue supporting the U.S. Navy’s communications requirements with our latest generation satellite earth station equipment,” said Fred Kornberg, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Comtech Telecommunications Corp.

Comtech EF Data Corp. is a leading supplier of communications equipment with a focus on satellite bandwidth efficiency and link optimization. The high-performance satellite communications ground equipment is deployed globally to support mission-critical and demanding applications for government, mobile backhaul, premium enterprise and mobility. Service providers, satellite operators, governments and commercial users wanting to optimize communications, increase throughput and delight customers, are leveraging the performance and flexibility of the Comtech brand. The solutions are facilitating fixed and mobile networks in 160+ countries and across every ocean. For more information, visit www.comtechefdata.com.

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. designs, develops, produces and markets innovative products, systems and services for advanced communications solutions. The Company sells products to a diverse customer base in the global commercial and government communications markets.

Certain information in this press release contains statements that are forward-looking in nature and involve certain significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from such forward-looking information. The Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings identify many such risks and uncertainties. Any forward-looking information in this press release is qualified in its entirety by the risks and uncertainties described in such Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

PCMTL

Media Contact:

Michael D. Porcelain, President and Chief Operating Officer

631-962-7000

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: New York United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Semiconductor Security Satellite Technology VoIP Software Hardware

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Soar the Skies with Demon Avenger in New MapleStory M Update

Soar the Skies with Demon Avenger in New MapleStory M Update

Update Includes Limited Time Character Growth Support Events Starting Today!

LOS ANGELES–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Starting today, Maplers can take to the sky with the new warrior class, Demon Avenger, in Nexon’s free-to-play mobile MMORPG, MapleStory M!

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201202005043/en/

MapleStory M (Graphic: Business Wire)

MapleStory M (Graphic: Business Wire)

Soaring through the battlefield with Demon Wings, the Demon Avenger joins the fray with an Exceed System that deals excessive damage. Using HP to cast skills, the Demon Avenger can easily recover using various healing abilities, including Blood Pact, in the midst of battle.

A selection of limited-time events are also available, including:

  • Demon Avenger Celebratory Log-in Reward Event: Players logging in from today through December 7, 2020 will receive a special gift to help their character level up once per account.
  • Demon Avenger Growth Support Event: Until January 11, 2021, players who reach a certain level will receive additional in-game items useful for a specific character’s level-up.
  • Demon Avenger Burning Event: Any new Demon Avenger character can be leveled-up by three levels for every level between level 3 to 100 until January 11, 2021.

On December 16, players will be introduced to additional updates including an all-new Master Label, the highest attainable luxury label acquired from Masterpiece machines, the Heroes of M 2 Event and other seasonal events.

To learn more about MapleStory M, visit the App Store or Google Play page and follow @PlayMapleMon Twitter for the latest updates.

Assets:

Social Media: Twitch / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Discord

About MapleStory Mhttps://maplestorym.nexon.com/

MapleStory M, launched globally on July 24, 2018, brings the nostalgic world of side-scrolling MMORPG MapleStory to mobile, offering the same endless amount of customization, immersive storylines and epic boss raids that fans have come to expect from the epic franchise. MapleStory M quickly reached 10 million downloads within 100 days after global launch and recently celebrated its 2-year anniversary with 16 million global downloads.

About Nexon America Inc. https://www.nexon.com/

Nexon America, a subsidiary of NEXON Co., Ltd. (“Nexon”) (3659.TO) with more than 80 live games operated across more than 190 countries, is a global leader in online games. Nexon America introduced micro-transactions and the free-to-play business model in the Western market and is widely credited with unmatched global expertise in sophisticated live game operations, nurturing player communities, and for sustaining titles for years, even decades. Nexon is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, and the company was placed on the Nikkei Stock Index 300 in 2017.

Nexon America

Cynthia Lezama

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MapleStory M (Graphic: Business Wire)

The New York Times Company to Webcast Its Presentation at the UBS Global TMT Conference

The New York Times Company to Webcast Its Presentation at the UBS Global TMT Conference

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
The New York Times Company announced today that it will participate in the UBS Global TMT Conference on Wednesday, December 9, 2020.

Meredith Kopit Levien, president and chief executive officer, will participate in a virtual fireside chat at 12:05 p.m. E.T., which will be accessible via live webcast at http://investors.nytco.com/investors/events-and-presentations. An archive of the webcast will be available on the company’s website for 90 days.

About The New York Times Company

The New York Times Company (NYSE:NYT) is a global media organization dedicated to enhancing society by creating, collecting and distributing high-quality news and information. The company includes The New York Times, NYTimes.com and related properties. It is known globally for excellence in its journalism, and innovation in its print and digital storytelling and its business model. Follow news about the company at @NYTimesPR.

This press release can be downloaded from www.nytco.com

Harlan Toplitzky, 212-556-7775, [email protected]

 

KEYWORDS: New York United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Publishing Communications Professional Services Other Professional Services Other Communications

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Raven Industries Opens Pre-Order for Driverless Ag Technology

Raven Industries Opens Pre-Order for Driverless Ag Technology

AutoCart® By Raven Autonomy™ Is Available for Pre-Order Now

SIOUX FALLS, S.D.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Raven Industries, Inc. (the Company; NASDAQ:RAVN) announced today that it is accepting pre-orders for its first commercially-available Driverless Ag Technology: AutoCart®. Part of Raven Autonomy™, this autonomous grain cart solution will be available to the market for use in the 2021 harvest season. AutoCart showcases the company’s unique position as the technology solutions leader in agriculture by bridging the gap from human-operated to fully-autonomous platforms.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201202005296/en/

Driverless Ag Technology: AutoCart® by Raven in use with a CNHi Combine (Photo: Business Wire).

Driverless Ag Technology: AutoCart® by Raven in use with a CNHi Combine (Photo: Business Wire).

AutoCart lets farmers set a field plan, stage locations, adjust speeds, monitor location activity and command the tractor pulling a grain cart to sync with the combine as it offloads on the go. The driverless tractor can then be returned to a predetermined unloading area.

“This technology showcases the dedication and world-class innovation of Raven,” said Brian Meyer, Vice President of Raven Applied Technology. “We set out to Solve Great Challenges, and Driverless Ag Technology is an incredible advancement that gives the farmer time back and improves the efficiency of harvest.

“Harvest is exhausting, and anyone who works on a farm knows the feeling of being shorthanded while trying to beat the weather and bring in their crop at the point that it will yield the maximum economic value. AutoCart is a real-world solution that will ease the stress of harvest and allow farmers to improve their profitability.”

AutoCart provides the farmer the ability to monitor and operate a driverless tractor from the cab of the combine. A single grain cart driver can cover 340 hours in the tractor cab during harvest. By incorporating an autonomous grain cart tractor into their operation, a farmer can use those hours to complete other fall maintenance and tillage tasks and improve their bottom-line efficiency.

Through sub-inch accuracy in steering and guidance with RS1™ and VSN® Visual Guidance and complete visibility into machines and operations with Slingshot®, Raven has been developing the path to autonomy in agriculture for years. Raven Autonomy is changing the ag technology landscape, helping ag professionals be safer, be more efficient and ultimately run their operation with less reliance on human variabilities.

“Raven Autonomy has made great strides in our dedication to autonomous technology,” said Sarah Waltner, General Manager of Raven Applied Technology. “Raven currently has two autonomous solutions being used in operations today, offering driverless spraying, seeding, spreading and grain cart functionalities.

“We recently announced the opening of the Raven Canadian Headquarters, which will function as a central campus for precision and autonomous agriculture innovations, training and service in Canada. Raven continues to push innovation for agriculture to keep the farmer profitable regardless of labor challenges.”

As the first commercially-available solution in the Driverless Ag Technology product line, AutoCart is now available for pre-order. Through Raven Autonomy, the company is bringing more driverless ag products to market in the near future as it paves the way in autonomous farming on a global scale. Learn more at https://ravenprecision.com/autonomy.

About Raven Industries, Inc.

Raven Industries (NASDAQ: RAVN) provides innovative, high-value products and systems that solve great challenges throughout the world. Raven is a leader in precision agriculture, high-performance specialty films, and aerospace and defense solutions, and the company’s groundbreaking work in autonomous systems is unlocking new possibilities in areas like farming, national defense, and scientific research. Since 1956, Raven has designed, produced, and delivered exceptional solutions, earning the company a reputation for innovation, product quality, and unmatched service. For more information, visit https://ravenind.com/.

About Raven Applied Technology

For decades, Raven Applied Technology has been committed to maximizing operational efficiencies through its innovative agriculture technology. The company’s autonomous product suite, Raven Autonomy™, is an extension of that core. From field computers to sprayer and planter controls, GPS guidance steering systems, logistics technology, and autonomous solutions — Raven provides precision agriculture products designed for ag retailers and growers to remain competitive and profitable into the future. Learn more at https://ravenprecision.com.

Lisa McElrath, Communications Manager

Raven Industries

+1 (605) 336-2750

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: South Dakota United States North America Canada

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Agriculture Natural Resources Other Manufacturing Engineering Automotive Manufacturing Other Natural Resources Aerospace Manufacturing

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Driverless Ag Technology: AutoCart® by Raven in use with a CNHi Combine (Photo: Business Wire).

ZoomInfo Launches Privacy Clusters to Future-Proof Intent Data

ZoomInfo Launches Privacy Clusters to Future-Proof Intent Data

Enables Companies to Build Data-Compliant Go-To-Market Strategies for the Long-Term

VANCOUVER, Wash.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–ZoomInfo (NASDAQ: ZI), a global leader in go-to-market intelligence solutions, today announced that it has launched Privacy Clusters as a part of its premium Streaming Intent offering. Privacy Clusters enable the cookieless production of business intent signals and preserve the anonymity of individuals while offering the company-specific behavioral signals needed to identify early-stage opportunities.

With the future of third-party cookies uncertain, Privacy Clusters allow ZoomInfo to respect consumer privacy while still delivering the business-to-business insights companies need to identify and reach prospective buyers at the right time. ZoomInfo’s Privacy Clusters are compliant with all current and expected privacy legislation, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and are unencumbered by opt-in, opt-out, or informed consent requirements.

Privacy Clusters deliver 100-percent cookieless tracking of company-level purchasing intent signals. Using its proprietary technology, ZoomInfo crafts persistent groupings of devices without the use of cookies or Internet Protocol addresses. Through these user-anonymized clusters, ZoomInfo’s customers can maintain the high-quality targeting and advertising efficacy they are used to, without compromising the privacy of internet users.

“Privacy is core to both our business and our platform,” said Henry Schuck, ZoomInfo’s Founder and CEO. “On top of our intent data and publisher co-op, we’ve developed an innovative, cookieless solution that preserves anonymity at the individual level and still achieves the goal of connecting businesses efficiently with their target customers and prospects. We’re setting industry standards for the ethical handling of business-to-business data through features and technologies that give our customers compliance assurance, as well as control over all of their data.”

ZoomInfo’s Privacy Clusters are the latest testament to the company’s leadership in data privacy. The company has attained the respected TRUSTe Enterprise Privacy Certification Seal, appointed Google’s Chief Privacy Officer Keith Enright to its board of directors, launched the industry’s first self-service Privacy Center operated by a dedicated privacy team, and delivered the industry’s first proactive notice program.

ZoomInfo emphasizes GDPR and CCPA compliance. The company is a registered data broker with the states of California and Vermont. Read about ZoomInfo’s commitment to compliance, privacy, and security.

About ZoomInfo

ZoomInfo (NASDAQ: ZI) is a Go-To-Market Intelligence Solution for more than 15,000 companies worldwide. The ZoomInfo platform empowers business-to-business sales, marketing, and recruiting professionals to hit their number by pairing best-in-class technology with unrivaled data coverage, accuracy, and depth of company and contact information. With integrations embedded into workflows and technology stacks, including the leading CRM, Sales Engagement, Marketing Automation, and Talent Management applications, ZoomInfo drives more predictable, accelerated, and sustainable growth for its customers. ZoomInfo emphasizes GDPR and CCPA compliance. In addition to creating the industry’s first proactive notice program, the company is a registered data broker with the states of California and Vermont. Read about ZoomInfo’s commitment to compliance, privacy, and security. For more information about our leading Go-To-Market Intelligence Solution, and how it helps sales, marketing, and recruiting professionals, please visit www.zoominfo.com.

Steve Vittorioso

Director, Communications

ZoomInfo

978-875-1297

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Washington United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Software Search Engine Marketing Marketing Data Management Communications Small Business Professional Services Technology

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Philips Partners With March of Dimes to Support #BlanketChange for Improved Maternal and Infant Health

Philips Partners With March of Dimes to Support #BlanketChange for Improved Maternal and Infant Health

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–RoyalPhilips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced its support for #BlanketChange, an advocacy campaign led by March of Dimes that calls on policymakers to improve maternal and infant health. Today, the U.S. is among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, a situation that has intensified with COVID-19. As of January 1, 2020, 120 rural healthcare facilities have closed, and a new March of Dimes report finds that 7 million women of childbearing age live in counties with no or limited access to maternity care, contributing to the increase of “maternity care deserts.”

“Our nation is in the midst of a maternal and infant health crisis, which is particularly devastating for underserved families of color. In this election year, we’re calling on candidates and policymakers at all levels – federal, state and local – to take steps to address this crisis,” said Dr. Rahul Gupta, chief medical and health officer, senior vice president and interim chief scientific officer at March of Dimes. “We’re grateful to healthcare technology leaders like Philips who stand with us by advocating for equity, access and prevention for all moms and babies.”

“As the maker of healthcare solutions across the continuum that will allow you to see the first images of your baby, hear their heartbeat, take care of them in the NICU and eventually when you bring them home, we are acutely aware of the challenges facing expectant and new moms,” said Vitor Rocha, chief Philips North America, member of the executive committee, Royal Philips. “Every mom and her newborn deserve to have the best care possible, and through the use of innovative technologies such as telehealth and remote monitoring, we hope to help close the gap and empower healthcare providers to bring care quality into every community, regardless of socioeconomic factors. Partnering with March of Dimes, we hope to increase access to maternal care as part of our commitment to improve 2.5 billion lives a year by 2030.”

According to the March of Dimes report, hospital quality also differs between facilities that mainly serve Black, Hispanic or American Indian women compared to a mostly white patient population. These differences between hospitals lead to higher rates of morbidity and mortality for the minority women, especially Black women. Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy complications than white women and it’s been estimated that over 60% of maternal deaths could be prevented.

In addition to #BlanketChange, Philips has partnered with March of Dimes through the Philips North America Corporate Social Responsibility (PNACSR) program, to help give babies born to active duty military families the best start in life. Since 2015, Philips and March of Dimes have hosted Mission: Healthy Baby educational baby showers at bases around the country, inviting more than 2,000 expectant U.S. military moms. Philips provides Philips AVENT products such as breast pumps, baby monitors, employee-made diaper cakes and blanket bundles, and employees volunteer at showers.

To learn more about Philips North America CSR programs, visit: https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/corporate-social-responsibility. For more information about #BlanketChange, visit www.blanketchange.org.

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people’s health and enabling better outcomes across the health continuum from healthy living and prevention, to diagnosis, treatment and home care. Philips leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver integrated solutions. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, image-guided therapy, patient monitoring and health informatics, as well as in consumer health and home care. Philips generated 2019 sales of EUR 19.5 billion and employs approximately 81,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter.

About March of Dimes

March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, lead programs and provide education and advocacy so that every baby can have the best possible start. Building on a successful 80-year legacy of impact and innovation, we empower every mom and every family.

Visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org for more information. Visit shareyourstory.org for comfort and support. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Silvie Casanova

Philips North America

+1-781-879-0692

[email protected]

Avi Dines

Philips North America

+1-781-690-3814

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Massachusetts Europe United States Netherlands North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Hardware Family Philanthropy Consumer Medical Devices Technology Parenting Baby/Maternity Women Biotechnology Other Philanthropy Health

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Bank of America Research Finds Small Business Owners Remained Resilient During a Challenging Year

Bank of America Research Finds Small Business Owners Remained Resilient During a Challenging Year

Despite a Cautious Near-Term Outlook, Entrepreneurs Anticipate a Strong Environment Post-Pandemic

CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
According to the new Bank of America 2020 Small Business Owner Report, U.S. small business owners have remained resilient and flexible this year as they navigated an evolving business landscape brought on by the health crisis.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201202005388/en/

2020 Bank of America Small Business Owner Report – Business Projections (Graphic: Business Wire)

2020 Bank of America Small Business Owner Report – Business Projections (Graphic: Business Wire)

The research, based on a survey of more than 1,000 business owners, found that entrepreneurs anticipate a strong post-pandemic environment that will support small businesses. On the road to recovery, they say stronger consumer confidence and increased spending (79%), restored confidence in public health (78%), debt forgiveness (66%) and government relief programs (66%) will be most beneficial. Once the U.S. recovers from the pandemic, many entrepreneurs believe:

  • Small businesses will return to being “the backbone of the U.S. economy” (79%).
  • Consumers will have a greater appreciation for small businesses (69%).
  • Entrepreneurs will be better prepared to handle potential reemergence of the coronavirus (59%).
  • The effects of the coronavirus will impact their bottom line for two years or less (59%).

Business owners demonstrate resilience and innovation

The latest research in our series of surveys reveals that more than four in five businesses stayed open in some capacity amid shutdowns this year, either as an essential business (38%) or by adjusting operations (47%). Among businesses that remained open, 78% report an impact on their day-to-day operations, including:

  • Implementing enhanced sanitation practices (45%).
  • Changing their primary revenue stream (37%).
  • Limiting hours of operation (33%).
  • Experiencing supply chain disruptions (28%).
  • Shifting to a digital/online strategy (25%).

Nearly one-quarter of entrepreneurs took steps to reinvent themselves or help their local communities. Of those business owners, 61% developed new products or services and 51% donated time, products and/or services to support relief efforts.

“During what have been unprecedented challenges for small businesses this year, I’ve been inspired by business owners throughout the country who have demonstrated a commitment to innovation while serving the needs of their local communities,” said Sharon Miller, head of Small Business at Bank of America. “Every day, I hear from entrepreneurs who are retooling and adapting to create new opportunities for themselves and their employees.”

Access to capital remains crucial during the pandemic

Maintaining a steady cash flow and access to capital continue to be critical issues for entrepreneurs. Forty-two percent of business owners applied for at least one type of loan specifically to address the impact of the coronavirus, including a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan (34%), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (16%) and/or traditional bank loan (5%). The top two ways business owners have or intend to use this financing are on payroll and staffing needs (75%) and maintaining operating expenses (62%).

“At Bank of America, we have continued to help small businesses navigate the current environment through our client assistance programs and the Paycheck Protection Program, as well as our grants and investments in small and minority-owned businesses,” added Miller.

Guarded business and economic outlook

Entrepreneurs are significantly less confident in the economy over the next 12 months – with optimism declining to levels not seen since 2016:

  • Thirty-nine percent of business owners anticipate their local economy will improve over the next 12 months (down from 51% pre-pandemic 2020 and the lowest since 37% in fall 2016).
  • Thirty-seven percent predict the national economy will improve (down from 47% pre-pandemic 2020 and the lowest since 29% in spring 2016).

Business owners are also reporting softer business projections for the coming year, with hiring plans and revenue expectations at record lows since 2012 and 2013, respectively.

  • Seven in 10 plan to keep staffing levels stable in 2021; 13% plan to hire in the year ahead.
  • Earlier this year (pre-pandemic 2020), 55% of business owners expected their revenue to rise over the next 12 months. This fall, there is an even split among those who expect revenue to increase (34%), stay the same (34%) or decrease (32%).

Top economic concerns

Business owners’ top two concerns for the year ahead include the political environment (78%, up from 63% pre-pandemic 2020) and the impact of the coronavirus (75%). Other top concerns for the year ahead include:

  • Health care costs (62%, steady with 60% pre-pandemic).
  • Consumer spending (56%, up from 46% pre-pandemic).
  • Stock market (50%, steady with 47% pre-pandemic).
  • Strength of the U.S. dollar (49%, up from 41% pre-pandemic).

For an in-depth look at the insights of the nation’s small business owners, read the full Bank of America 2020 Small Business Owner Report.

Providing a business advantage to small business owners

Bank of America provides advice, solutions, access to capital and dedicated support to meet the unique needs of our 12 million business owner clients.According to the FDIC, Bank of America maintained its position as the nation’s top small business lender at the end of the second quarter of 2020, with $51.3 billion in total outstanding small business loans (defined as business loans in original amounts of $1 million and under). According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, Bank of America has been the largest PPP loan provider in the U.S. by number of approved loans, and has delivered more than $26 billion in PPP loan funds to help more than 345,000 small business clients in need.

Separately, in June, Bank of America announcedthat it is making a $1 billion, four-year commitment to help local communities address economic and racial inequality accelerated by the global pandemic. The programs will focus on assisting people and communities of color that have experienced a greater impact from the health crisis, with a particular focus on health and health care, jobs/reskilling, small business and affordable housing. Bank of America has already allocated$300 million to these four key areas across 91 U.S. markets and globally.

Bank of America 2020 Small Business Owner Report

Ipsos Public Affairs conducted the Bank of America 2020 Small Business Owner Report survey online between July 29 and September 3, 2020 using a pre-recruited online sample of small business owners. Ipsos contacted a national sample of 1,048 small business owners in the United States with annual revenue between $100,000 and $4,999,999 and employing between two and 99 employees, as well as conducted 342 interviews of Hispanic small business owners, 307 interviews of Black small business owners, and 114 interviews of Asian American small business owners. In addition, approximately 300 small business owners were surveyed in each of 10 target markets: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. The final results for the national, DMA and demographic segments were weighted to national benchmark standards for size, revenue and region, while the final results for the Hispanic segment were weighted for size, revenue, region, and whether the respondents were primarily English-speaking or Spanish-speaking.

Prior to 2016, waves of the Small Business Owner Report Survey were conducted by telephone, and while best efforts were made to replicate processes, differences in sample, weighting and method suggest caution when making direct statistical comparisons of the results from pre-2016 and post-2016.

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 66 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,300 retail financial centers, including approximately 2,900 lending centers, 2,500 financial centers with a Consumer Investment Financial Solutions Advisor and approximately 2,300 business centers; approximately 17,000 ATMs; and award-winning digital banking with approximately 39 million active users, including approximately 31 million mobile users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 3 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and approximately 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts.

www.bankofamerica.com

Don Vecchiarello, Bank of America

Phone: 1.980.387.4899

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: North Carolina United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Banking Professional Services Finance

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2020 Bank of America Small Business Owner Report – Business Projections (Graphic: Business Wire)
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2020 Bank of America Small Business Owner Report – Economic Outlooks (Graphic: Business Wire)