PDAC welcomes proposed flow-through legislation

Proposed legislation would support mineral exploration sector jobs and operations

TORONTO, Dec. 17, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) welcomes the federal government’s draft legislative proposals to protect jobs and save operations within the junior mining exploration sector and with other flow-through share issuers, by extending the timelines for spending the capital they raise via flow-through shares.

“The mineral exploration and development sector is a crucial component of the Canadian economy, generating significant economic and social benefits, particularly for northern and remote communities all across the country. This proposed legislation will help provide the necessary support for the industry, contribute to its recovery, and allow us to help kick-start Canada’s economic recovery in 2021,” says PDAC President Felix Lee.

As the impact of COVID-19 continues to cause significant global disruptions, the Canadian mineral exploration sector has seen many junior companies and small businesses facing pandemic-imposed challenges such as voluntary shutdowns or difficulty accessing the field due to travel restrictions.

The government’s proposed legislation will ensure mineral exploration companies with operations impacted by COVID-19 would be allowed additional time to incur eligible expenses, allowing them to safely plan when to best continue operations, and avoid penalties that would normally come from not meeting original flow-through share timelines.

Canada’s mineral exploration and mining industry generates significant economic and social benefits in remote communities, Indigenous communities, and cities, employing 719,000 workers and contributing $109 billion annually to GDP. It is the largest private-sector industrial employer on a proportional basis of Indigenous people in Canada.

About PDAC

PDAC is the leading voice of the mineral exploration and development community. With over 7,200 members around the world, PDAC’s work centres on supporting a competitive, responsible mineral sector. PDAC is known worldwide for its annual PDAC Convention—the premier international event for the industry—that has attracted over 25,000 people from 135 countries in recent years and will next be held virtually March 8-11, 2021.Please visit www.pdac.ca.

Media contact

Laural Adams
1-289-707-5420
[email protected]



Guaranteed Rate Renews Partnership with Roush Fenway, Ryan Newman

Premier retail mortgage lender to continue serving as primary partner in 2021

PR Newswire

CONCORD, N.C., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Guaranteed Rate, which joined Roush Fenway as a primary partner on Ryan Newman’s No. 6 Ford Mustang entry in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2020, has extended its partnership and will continue as a primary in multiple races in 2021.

“We are excited to have Guaranteed Rate back on our Ford this season,” said Newman, who boasts 18 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series. “They came on board last year and were really a strong presence for our team down the stretch. They are a great group to work with and I look forward to building on the program in 2021.”

Guaranteed Rate, one of the largest retail mortgage lenders in the United States, initially joined Roush Fenway midway through the 2020 campaign, as a primary on Newman’s Ford at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Following that event, in conjunction with Fenway Sports Management, the brand expanded its relationship and was featured as the lead partner in 11 of the season’s final 14 races.

“Our launch into NASCAR this past season was a huge success,” said Guaranteed Rate Chief Marketing Officer Steve Moffat. “Ryan Newman and the Roush Fenway Team are true professionals and outstanding partners. Ryan set some big goals for 2021, and we at Guaranteed Rate share that same competitive spirit and focus on winning.”

Roush Fenway is coming off a notable launch with Guaranteed Rate, having won a MarCom Gold Award for its efforts in integrated marketing. As part of the campaign, Guaranteed Rate rolled out an expansive sweepstakes program on social, allowing fans the opportunity to win multiple prizes from Newman.

“We are very happy to announce that Guaranteed Rate will return in 2021 and continue to serve as a primary partner with Ryan Newman and the No. 6 Ford,” said team president Steve Newmark. “Since joining the team in July of 2020, Guaranteed Rate launched a robust marketing campaign around the partnership that saw great fan response. The high level of engagement from our fanbase is a testament to their brand and the quality of their products and services. We look forward to continuing to expand the partnership in 2021 and beyond, and jointly offering creative programs to our fans.”

Newman enters his 20th full season in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2021, and third behind the wheel of the No. 6 Ford. The South Bend, Ind., native has 260+ career top-10 finishes, 115 in the top five, along with 18 wins, including the 2008 Daytona 500. 

The No. 6 Guaranteed Rate Ford with Newman at the wheel will be seen in the Daytona Clash (2/9), Martinsville (4/10), Dover (5/16), Circuit of the Americas (5/23), Pocono (6/27), New Hampshire (7/18), Richmond (9/11) and Las Vegas (9/26).

About Guaranteed Rate Companies

The Guaranteed Rate Companies, which includes Guaranteed Rate Inc., Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC, and Proper Rate, LLC, has more than 8,000 employees in over 700 offices across the U.S. Headquartered in Chicago, Guaranteed Rate Inc. is one of the largest retail mortgage lenders in the United States funding $37 billion in 2019. Founded in 2000 and licensed in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., Guaranteed Rate Companies has helped homeowners nationwide with home purchase loans and refinances. The company has established itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates and delivering unparalleled customer service. 2017 marked the launch of Guaranteed Rate Affinity, LLC, a mortgage origination joint venture between Guaranteed Rate, Inc. and Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in residential real estate franchising and brokerage. In 2020, the company launched Proper Rate, LLC, a mortgage origination joint venture between Guaranteed Rate and @properties, one of the nation’s largest residential brokerage firms. Collectively, the companies have earned honors and awards including: HousingWire‘s 2020 Tech100 award for the company’s industry-leading FlashClose SM technology; Top Lender for Online Service for 2018 by U.S. News & World Report; No. 3 ranking in Scotsman Guide‘s Top Retail Mortgage Lenders 2019; Chicago Agent Magazine‘s Lender of the Year for five consecutive years; Chicago Tribune‘s Top Workplaces list for seven consecutive years; and Best Online Mortgage Lender, Best Mortgage Lender for VA loans and Best Conventional Mortgage Lender by NerdWallet in 2019. Visit rate.com for more information.

About Roush Fenway Racing

Roush Fenway Racing is one of the most successful teams in NASCAR history, fielding multiple teams in NASCAR Cup Series. Set to begin its 34th season in 2021, Roush Fenway is a leader in driver development, having launched the careers for many of the top drivers in the sport. Off-track, Roush Fenway is a leader in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning Social Media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Roush Fenway is co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Fame team owner Jack Roush and Fenway Sports Group, parent company of Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox and English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C. Visit RoushFenway.com, become a fan on Facebook and Instagram, and follow on Twitter at @roushfenway.

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SOURCE Guaranteed Rate

Gores Holdings IV Announces Special Stockholder Meeting to Approve Business Combination

– Special Meeting to be held on January 20, 2021

– Stockholders are Encouraged to Submit Their Vote Prior to the Special Meeting

PR Newswire

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Gores Holdings IV, Inc. (NASDAQ: GHIV, GHIVU and GHIVW) (the “Company”), a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by an affiliate of The Gores Group, LLC, today announced that the Company has filed a definitive proxy statement with the SEC in connection with the previously announced business combination with United Wholesale Mortgage, LLC (“UWM”) (the “Business Combination”). The Company will hold a Special Meeting in lieu of the Company’s 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders via live webcast at https://www.cstproxy.com/goresholdingsiv/2021, on January 20, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time (the “Special Meeting”). The definitive proxy statement contains important information about the Business Combination and the other matters to be voted upon at the Special Meeting.

The filing of the definitive proxy statement is an important step in UWM becoming a publicly traded company, with the goal of being listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “UWMC.” The Business Combination is expected to close shortly after the Special Meeting, subject to receipt of regulatory and stockholder approvals, and other customary closing conditions.

Notice of the Special Meeting, together with the definitive proxy statement relating to the Special Meeting, will be mailed to stockholders of record as of the close of business on December 15, 2020 (the “Record Date”).

About Gores Holdings IV, Inc.

Gores Holdings IV is a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by an affiliate of The Gores Group for the purpose of effecting a merger, acquisition, or similar business combination. Gores Holdings IV completed its initial public offering in January 2020, raising approximately $425 million in cash proceeds. Prior business combinations for special purpose acquisition companies sponsored by affiliates of The Gores Group include: Hostess (Gores Holdings, Inc.), Verra Mobility (Gores Holdings II, Inc.), PAE (Gores Holdings III, Inc.) and Luminar (Gores Metropoulos, Inc.). Upon the closing of the Business Combination, Gores Holdings IV will change its name to UWM Corporation.

About The Gores Group, LLC

Founded in 1987 by Alec Gores, The Gores Group is a global investment firm focused on partnering with differentiated businesses that can benefit from the firm’s extensive industry knowledge and decades long experience. Gores Holdings IV and The Gores Group are separate entities with separate management, although there is overlap in size and industry of target acquisition and personnel involved. For more information, please visit www.gores.com.

About United Wholesale Mortgage

Headquartered in Pontiac, Michigan, United Wholesale Mortgage is the #1 wholesale lender in the nation five years in a row. UWM provides Independent Mortgage Advisors, across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, with a unique set of innovative technologically-driven tools and a value proposition that enables them to offer borrowers compelling financing alternatives. UWM’s exceptional teamwork and laser-like focus on delivering innovative mortgage solutions are driving the company’s ongoing growth and its leadership position as the foremost advocate for mortgage brokers.

Additional Information about the Business Combination and Where to Find It

Gores Holdings IV has filed a definitive proxy statement with the SEC in connection with the Business Combination and will mail the definitive proxy statement and other relevant documents to its stockholders as of the Record Date. The definitive proxy statement contains important information about the proposed Business Combination and the other matters to be voted upon at the Special Meeting. Gores Holdings IV stockholders and other interested persons are advised to read the definitive proxy statement, as well as any amendments or supplements thereto, in connection with Gores Holdings IV’s solicitation of proxies for the Special Meeting because they contain and will contain important information about the Business Combination. Gores Holdings IV stockholders can also obtain copies of the definitive proxy statement, without charge, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Gores Holdings IV, Inc., 9800 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, attention: Jennifer Kwon Chou ([email protected]).

Participants in Solicitation

Gores Holdings IV, UWM and their respective directors and officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies of Gores Holdings IV stockholders in connection with the Business Combination. Gores Holdings IV stockholders and other interested persons may obtain, without charge, more detailed information regarding the directors and officers of Gores Holdings IV in Gores Holdings IV’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, which was filed with the SEC on March 27, 2020. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies to Gores Holdings IV stockholders in connection with the Business Combination and other matters to be voted upon at the Special Meeting is set forth in the definitive proxy statement for the Business Combination. Additional information regarding the interests of participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the Business Combination is included in the definitive proxy statement that Gores Holdings IV filed with the SEC.

Forward Looking Statements

This communication may contain a number of “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include information concerning Gores Holdings IV’s or UWM’s possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, debt levels, competitive position, industry environment, potential growth opportunities and the effects of regulation, including whether this transaction will generate returns for stockholders. These forward-looking statements are based on Gores Holdings IV’s or UWM’s management’s current expectations, estimates, projections and beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions concerning future events. When used in this communication, the words “estimates,” “projected,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “seeks,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “future,” “propose” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside UWM’s management’s control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. With respect to forward looking statements relating to the consummation of the proposed business combination, these risks include, but are not limited to: (a) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement, the failure to obtain approval of the stockholders of the Company or the failure to receive required regulatory approvals; (b) the ability to meet applicable listing standards; (c) UWM’s reliance on its warehouse facilities and the risk of a decrease in the value of the collateral underlying certain of its facilities causing an unanticipated margin call; (d) UWM’s ability to sell loans in the secondary market; (e) UWM’s dependence on the government sponsored entities such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac; (f) the risk that an increase in the value of the MBS UWM sells in forward markets to hedge its pipeline may result in an unanticipated margin call; (g) UWM’s inability to continue to grow, or to effectively manage the growth of, its loan origination volume; (h) UWM’s ability to continue to attract and retain its Independent Mortgage Advisor relationships; and (i) other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the definitive proxy statement filed by Gores Holdings IV in connection with Gores Holdings IV’s solicitation of proxies for the Special Meeting, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, and other documents filed or to be filed with the SEC by Gores Holdings IV. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made.

Forward-looking statements included in this communication speak only as of the date of this communication. Except as required by law, neither Gores Holdings IV nor UWM undertakes any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release. Additional risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in Gores Holdings IV’s reports filed with the SEC and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Disclaimer

This communication is for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities pursuant to the Business Combination or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which the offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act.

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SOURCE Gores Holdings IV, Inc.

Tropicana Community Services board hired labour consultant with a long and ongoing history of racist and sexist social media posts

Retained shortly after workers unionized, labour consultant Ken Godevenos is a prolific social media user with over 30,000 posts on Twitter alone. His archive includes dozens of racist and sexist comments, especially directed towards the Black community.

TORONTO, Dec. 17, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SEIU (Service Employees International Union) Local 2 has uncovered a long history of racist and sexist posts authored by Ken Godevenos, a consultant hired by Tropicana Community Services management. This discovery comes amidst the Tropicana staff strike, a workforce majority comprised of members from the African, Caribbean and Black communities.

Ken Godevenos is the president of Accord Consulting Services, which offers management consulting services for the non-profit sector. Godevenos was hired shortly after workers unionized to act as a labour relations consultant. Since the start of the strike, he has served as a liaison and been an integral part of negotiations.

In one tweet dated on the day the strike commenced on November 9th, Godevenos shared a quote from the founder of a ministry labelled as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. In reply to a comment under this same post decrying the exigencies of modern-day tolerance, Godevenos comments, “in that case I will take being a racist pariah as being an honor.”

Godevenos has also posted defending the use of the term “Wuhan virus” or “Chinese virus” when referring to the COVID-19 virus and several posts promoting the conspiracy theories about the virus originating in a Chinese lab.

He has made several disparaging remarks on Black Lives Matter while anti-police brutality protests were ongoing in the United States and Canada. For instance, in a tweet authored on June 27th 2020, Godevenos states: “It appears my white social contacts that you and I are the enemy. #BLM is not so much worried about bettering the life of blacks, as it is destroying and eliminating of the life of whites. Take a look. Your thoughts welcomed.” Godevenos then links to a news article posted on a fringe right-wing site entitled “Black Lives Matter Fliers: WE ARE AT WAR; WHITE PEOPLE ARE THE ENEMY”.

Godevenos’ ire has not been reserved for people of colour. He has made several sexist comments, including a Facebook post authored on October 26th, 2020 where he states: “Why is it that the majority of females who want to connect with me on social media never have original thoughts, but only “like” what others have said? Oh, I know.”

SEIU Local 2 calls on Tropicana management to remove Ken Godevenos from his post, end years of wage freezes and live up to the higher standards of equity and conduct incumbent on a publicly-funded organization.

SEIU Local 2 represents workers in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Alberta, New Brunswick and British Columbia.

Contact: Assya Moustaqim-Barrette
[email protected]
416-274-4903



Schneider Donates Refrigerated Trailer to Feeding America

Schneider Donates Refrigerated Trailer to Feeding America

Equipment provided by Schneider Foundation will help meet increased need in Eastern Wisconsin

GREEN BAY, Wisconsin–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Schneider (NYSE: SNDR), a premier provider of transportation and logistics services, has found a unique way to help food pantries in Northeast Wisconsin provide for those in need. The company recently donated a refrigerated trailer to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, the state’s largest hunger-relief organization. The 53-foot trailer will be used to transport fresh produce and other perishables.

Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin is a critical resource in our community,” said LuEllen Oskey, executive director of the Schneider Foundation. “We know that the use of food pantries during the pandemic has, sadly, grown exponentially, and we wanted to do our part to help. Giving them a safe, reliable refrigerated trailer that can get food to our neighbors more quickly was something we were excited to do.”

The Schneider Foundation – the philanthropic arm of the enterprise – provides grants to eligible nonprofits to strengthen the communities where its associates live, work and volunteer. Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin initially approached the Foundation requesting partial funding to purchase a used trailer. Schneider instead donated a trailer, with a value of approximately $35,000, to the organization. Schneider also installed a lift unit to make it easier for Feeding America to move food pallets in and out of the trailer.

“This refrigerated trailer with a lift gate is a true gift to our organization,” says Patti Habeck, president and CEO of Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin. “The trailer will help us meet increased demand during the pandemic and also build on our volunteer driver and student driver program with Fox Valley Technical College. This is a great example of collaboration in the community in support of our mission to solve hunger. Our community will benefit so much from the generosity of Schneider.”

According to Habeck, demand for food donations is currently around four times higher than what is typical for this time of year.

The trailer has been wrapped in an appropriate design featuring the Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin logo and Schneider logo superimposed on a background of giant, fresh carrots. This is a great symbol for both organizations, since produce is one of the top three food items distributed by the food bank (increasing 15% in the last fiscal year), and it mirrors Schneider’s signature orange trucks.

About Schneider

Schneider is a premier provider of transportation and logistics services. Offering one of the broadest portfolios in the industry, Schneider’s solutions include Regional and Long-HaulTruckload, Expedited, Dedicated, Bulk, Intermodal, Brokerage, Warehousing, Supply Chain Management, Port Logistics and Logistics Consulting.

With nearly $5 billion in annual revenue, Schneider has been safely delivering superior customer experiences and investing in innovation for over 80 years. The company’s digital marketplace, Schneider FreightPower®, is revolutionizing the industry giving shippers access to an expanded, highly flexible capacity network and provides carriers with unmatched access to quality drop-and-hook freight – Always Delivering, Always Ahead.

For more information about Schneider, visit Schneider.com or follow the company socially on LinkedIn and Twitter: @WeAreSchneider.

Source: Schneider SNDR

Kara Leiterman, Media Relations Manager

M 920-370-7188

KEYWORDS: United States North America Wisconsin

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Other Transport Trucking Transport Philanthropy Food/Beverage Logistics/Supply Chain Management Other Philanthropy Retail Foundation

MEDIA:

SHAREHOLDER ALERT: Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. Reminds Investors of Investigations of INFO, SNSS, INSU, and FBSS Mergers

WILMINGTON, Del., Dec. 17, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rigrodsky & Long, P.A. announces that it is investigating:

IHS Markit Ltd. (NYSE:

INFO

) regarding possible breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations of law related to IHS Markit’s agreement to be acquired by S&P Global Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, IHS Markit’s shareholders will receive 0.2838 shares of S&P common stock per share. To learn more about this investigation and your rights, visit: https://www.rigrodskylong.com/cases-ihs-markit-ltd.

Sunesis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ CM:

SNSS

) regarding possible breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations of law related to Sunesis’ agreement to merge with Viracta. Under the terms of the agreement, Sunesis will issue a number of shares of Sunesis common stock to shareholders of Viracta. To learn more about this investigation and your rights, visit: https://www.rigrodskylong.com/cases-sunesis-pharmaceuticals-inc.

INSU Acquisition Corp. II (NASDAQ GS:

INAQ

) regarding possible breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations of law related to INSU Acquisition’s agreement to merge with MetroMile, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, INSU Acquisition will issue an amount in cash and a number of shares of INSU Acquisition’s Class A common stock to shareholders of MetroMile. To learn more about this investigation and your rights, visit: https://www.rigrodskylong.com/cases-insu-acquisition-corp-ii.

Fauquier Bankshares, Inc. (NASDAQ GS:

FBSS

) regarding possible breaches of fiduciary duties and other violations of law related to Fauquier’s agreement to be acquired by Virginia National Bankshares Corporation. Under the terms of the agreement, Fauquier’s shareholders will 0.6750 shares of Virginia National common stock per share. To learn more about this investigation and your rights, visit: https://www.rigrodskylong.com/cases-fauquier-bankshares-inc.

You may also contact Seth D. Rigrodsky or Gina M. Serra cost and obligation free at (888) 969-4242 or [email protected].

Rigrodsky & Long, P.A., with offices in Delaware and New York, has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of investors and achieved substantial corporate governance reforms in securities fraud and corporate class actions nationwide.

Attorney advertising.  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

CONTACT:         

Rigrodsky & Long, P.A.
Seth D. Rigrodsky
Gina M. Serra
(888) 969-4242 (Toll Free)
(302) 295-5310
Fax: (302) 654-7530
[email protected]
https://rl-legal.com



BMO Global Asset Management 2021 Outlook Report: Better Times Ahead

Canada NewsWire

TORONTO, Dec. 17, 2020 /CNW/ – Following the global challenges experienced in 2020, the current optimism is expected to carry into 2021 as economic conditions continue to improve, according to BMO Global Asset Management’s (BMO GAM) Multi-Asset Solutions Team’s 2021 outlook report titled The Great Normalization.  

With rapid vaccination expected to take place in the first half of the year, the stage is set for strong growth recovery in 2021.The services sector should be a principal beneficiary as the in-person economy returns in the post-pandemic world. Additionally, fiscal and monetary support, which was crucial to economies and markets in 2020, is expected to continue into the new year. Absolute rates are also expected to remain at historic lows, leading to an environment supportive for equities and broader risk markets globally.

“By mid-year we expect certain sectors, such as travel and tourism, to bump against capacity constraints as long-delayed holidays and other spending materialize,” said Frederick Demers, Director, Multi-Asset Solutions, BMO Global Asset Management. “As normalcy returns, consumer spending is expected to grow and unemployment rates to be meaningfully lower than current rates. Heading into 2021, we are optimistic we will see improved economic conditions and better times ahead.”

Canadian and U.S. Outlook
The Canadian economy has recovered in recent months as a result of an aggressive fiscal response; however, it is expected to lag behind the U.S. and global recovery. The fiscal response has led to a surge in debt, with the federal deficit expected to exceed C$150 billion for FY-2021/22 as support for health, wage and income support programs continue.

The U.S. economy and financial markets are expected to perform well on fiscal, monetary and vaccine developments. The Federal Reserve’s “average inflation targeting” approach will mitigate pre-emptive tightening on inflation pressures and interest rate increases. There are questions around equity market valuations; however, BMO GAM’s long-term valuation modeling indicates that equities are reasonably priced at current levels.

Equity Outlook
There is a favorable medium-term view on equities heading into 2021 given expectations for a vaccine-driven economic recovery and revitalized global corporate earnings. Current positioning includes:

  • Relatively neutral on Value versus Growth
  • Overweight global equities versus fixed income
  • Overweighted on Small-Caps versus Low-Vol stocks as a reflation play
  • Overweighted on emerging-market equities

Energy Sector and the Green Wave
Oil prices decreased around 25 per cent this year as demand fell and inventories grew. Widespread pandemic-induced lockdowns are a major factor in this performance, although there was a prior excess oil supply.  As life and economic activity normalizes into 2022, oil demand should rebound but at a slower rate than the broader pace of the economy.

However, COVID-19 will also leave a permanent imprint on behaviours such as business travel and work-from-home schemes. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on green energy projects as Canada and other countries focus on promoting less carbon-heavy industries. 

Responsible investing continues to gain traction in the investing industry, with a focus on environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria and the development of strategies that can positively affect the world.

To view the full report, please click here.

Forward Looking Statements
Any statement that necessarily depends on future events may be a forward-looking statement. “Forward-looking statements,” can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “should”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “outlook”, “project”, “estimate”, “intend”, “continue” or “believe” or the negatives thereof, or variations thereon, or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. They involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although such statements are based on assumptions that are believed to be reasonable, there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from expectations. Investors are cautioned not to rely unduly on any forward-looking statements.

The above mentioned report has been prepared by the BMO GAM Multi-Asset Solutions Team (MAST) and is intended for informational purposes only. This report represents their assessment of the markets at the time of publication. Those views are subject to change without notice as markets change over time. The information contained herein is not, and should not be construed as, investment, tax or legal advice to any party. Investments should be evaluated relative to the individual’s investment objectives and professional advice should be obtained with respect to any circumstance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

BMO Global Asset Management is the brand name for various affiliated entities of BMO Financial Group that provide investment management, and trust and custody services. BMO Global Asset Management comprises BMO Asset Management Inc., BMO Investments Inc., BMO Asset Management Corp., BMO Asset Management Limited and BMO’s specialized investment management firms. Certain of the products and services offered under the brand name, BMO Global Asset Management are designed specifically for various categories of investors in a number of different countries and regions and may not be available to all investors. Products and services are only offered to such investors in those countries and regions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. BMO Financial Group is a service mark of Bank of Montreal (BMO).

®/™Registered trademarks/trademark of Bank of Montreal, used under licence.

About BMO Financial Group
Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a highly diversified financial services provider – the 8th largest bank, by assets, in North America. With total assets of $949 billion as of October 31, 2020, and a team of diverse and highly engaged employees, BMO provides a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management and investment banking products and services to more than 12 million customers and conducts business through three operating groups: Personal and Commercial Banking, BMO Wealth Management and BMO Capital Markets.

SOURCE BMO Financial Group

Constellis company Triple Canopy wins position on $15 billion State Department WPS III IDIQ contract

The U.S. Department of State has awarded Constellis company Triple Canopy a position on their Worldwide Protective Services III (WPS III) IDIQ contract beginning February 2021.

Herndon, VA, Dec. 17, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Constellis, a leading provider of essential risk management and mission support services to government and commercial clients worldwide, announced today that the Department of State (DOS) awarded the company a 10-year, indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) WPS III contract, with a $15 billion IDIQ ordering ceiling, scheduled to start in February 2021.

Under this multiple-award contract, Constellis will provide armed personal protective, static guard, and team-based emergency response security services for the DOS worldwide, focusing primarily on DOS requirements in high-threat overseas locations.

As the premier global provider of high-end security solutions, Constellis company Triple Canopy has been supporting the State Department for over 15 years.

“We are truly honored to be selected by the Department of State to help secure their vital missions overseas for the next decade,” said Tim Reardon, CEO of Constellis. “The State Department performs critically important work in high-threat regions, and we’re extraordinarily proud to be a part of their trusted team.”

About Constellis

In an ever-changing and complex world, security enables innovation, leads to opportunity, and drives progress. Constellis provides end-to-end risk management and humanitarian solutions to safeguard people and infrastructure globally. Our team of strategic problem solvers has a steadfast moral compass and unwavering dedication to creating a safer world. Constellis is fiercely committed to the success of our customers and partners.



Constellis
1 866 996 3599
[email protected]

Biloxi Marsh Lands Corporation Declares Cash Dividend

Biloxi Marsh Lands Corporation Declares Cash Dividend

METAIRIE, La.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
During its meeting held on Thursday, December 17, 2020, the Board of Directors of Biloxi Marsh Lands Corporation (Pink Sheets: BLMC) declared a dividend of $.10 per outstanding share of common stock payable on Thursday, January 14, 2021 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on Wednesday, December 30, 2020.

Biloxi Marsh Lands Corporation

Belle Bellard: 504-837-4337

KEYWORDS: Louisiana United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Oil/Gas Energy

MEDIA:

Social Capital Hedosophia II Shareholders Approve Business Combination With Opendoor

Social Capital Hedosophia II Shareholders Approve Business Combination With Opendoor

PALO ALTO, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Social Capital Hedosophia Holdings Corp. II (NYSE:IPOB) (“SCH” and, after the Domestication as described below, “Opendoor Technologies”), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company, announced today that in a general meeting on December 17, 2020, its shareholders voted to approve its proposed business combination (the “business combination”) with Opendoor Labs Inc. (“Opendoor”), the pioneer and market leader in iBuying. Approximately 99.9% of the votes cast at the meeting, representing approximately 64.7% of SCH’s outstanding shares, were in favor of the business combination.

The business combination is expected to close on December 18, 2020, subject to the satisfaction of certain customary closing conditions. Prior to the consummation of the business combination, SCH will domesticate as a Delaware corporation and will change its name to “Opendoor Technologies Inc.” (the “Domestication”). Trading is expected to begin on The Nasdaq Global Select Market on December 21, 2020, under the new ticker symbol “OPEN” for Opendoor Technologies common stock and “OPENW” for the Opendoor Technologies warrants. Until the Domestication and transfer is complete, the SCH common stock, warrants and units will continue to trade under the ticker symbols “IPOB”, “IPOB.WS” and “IPOB.U”, respectively, on NYSE.

About Social Capital Hedosophia II

Social Capital Hedosophia II is a partnership between the investment firms of Social Capital and Hedosophia. Social Capital Hedosophia II unites technologists, entrepreneurs and technology-oriented investors around a shared vision of identifying and investing in innovative and agile technology companies. To learn more about Social Capital Hedosophia, visit www.socialcapitalhedosophiaholdings.com.

About Opendoor

Opendoor’s mission is to empower everyone with the freedom to move. Since 2014, Opendoor has provided people across the U.S. with a radically simple way to buy, sell or trade-in a home. Opendoor currently operates in a growing number of markets across the U.S. and is headquartered in San Francisco.

For more information, please visit www.opendoor.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to the proposed transaction between Opendoor and SCH, including statements regarding the anticipated consummation of the business combination and the transaction related thereto, including the domestication of SCH and the listing of shares and warrants of the post-business combination company on Nasdaq. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: (i) the risk that the transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all, which may adversely affect the price of SCH’s securities, (ii) the risk that the transaction may not be completed by SCH’s business combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain an extension of the business combination deadline if sought by SCH, (iii) the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the transaction, (iv) the lack of a third party valuation in determining whether or not to pursue the proposed transaction, (v) the inability to complete the private placement transaction, (vi) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, (vii) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the transaction on Opendoor’s business relationships, operating results, and business generally, (viii) risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations of Opendoor, (ix) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Opendoor or against SCH related to the merger agreement or the proposed transaction, (x) the ability to maintain the listing of SCH’s securities on a national securities exchange, (xi) changes in the competitive and regulated industries in which Opendoor operates, variations in operating performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting Opendoor’s business and changes in the combined capital structure, (xii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations after the completion of the proposed transaction, and identify and realize additional opportunities, (xiii) the risk of downturns and a changing regulatory landscape in the highly competitive residential real estate industry, and (xiv) costs related to the transaction and the failure to realize anticipated benefits of the transaction or to realize estimated pro forma results and underlying assumptions, including with respect to estimated shareholder redemptions. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement on Form S-4 filed by SCH with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on October 5, 2020 (Registration No. 333-249302), as amended, and other documents filed by SCH from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Opendoor and SCH assume no obligation and do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Neither Opendoor nor SCH gives any assurance that either Opendoor or SCH, or the combined company, will achieve its expectations.

Opendoor

Investors:

Whitney Kukulka

The Blueshirt Group

[email protected]

Media:

Sheila Tran / Charles Stewart

Opendoor

[email protected]

Social Capital Hedosophia II

Media:

Sara Evans / Kerry Golds

Finsbury

[email protected] / [email protected]

+1.917.344.9279 / +1.646.957.2279

Jonathan Gasthalter / Carissa Felger

Gasthalter & Co.

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: California United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Finance Banking Professional Services Residential Building & Real Estate Construction & Property

MEDIA: