Equinor ASA: Changes in Equinor’s corporate structure and Corporate Executive Committee

Equinor (OSE: EQNR, NYSE: EQNR) announces changes in the corporate structure and the Corporate Executive Committee (CEC).

“Equinor is developing as a broad energy company. We are now making changes to further strengthen our ability to deliver on our always safe, high value, low carbon strategy. These changes will support improved value creation from our world-class oil and gas portfolio, accelerated profitable growth within renewables and the development of low carbon solutions,” says Anders Opedal, President and CEO of Equinor.

Organisational structure

The new corporate structure will consist of six business areas and five corporate centre units. The current organisational structure will remain in place until the planned implementation takes effect by 1 June 2021.

Business Areas:

Exploration & Production Norway (EPN) and Exploration & Production International (EPI) are established as two new business areas. They will continue competitive and resilient oil and gas exploration and production, with industry-leading unit costs, recovery rates and carbon efficiency. Equinor is well positioned with world-class assets in attractive areas. Two consolidated oil and gas business areas will support a focused approach to strengthen value creation and reduce emissions.

Renewables (REN) continues as a business area, renamed from New Energy Solutions (NES), aiming to accelerate profitable growth within renewables. It will report as a separate segment from the first quarter of 2021.

Equinor is establishing Technology, Digital & Innovation (TDI) as a separate business area, while Projects, Drilling & Procurement (PDP) will become a more focused business area. Technology, digitalisation and innovation are fundamental enablers to improve safety, increase value creation, reduce emissions and develop low carbon solutions. Gathering units in a new TDI business area will unlock opportunities both within oil and gas, renewables and low carbon solutions.

Marketing, Midstream & Processing (MMP) is unchanged as a business area.

Corporate centre units:

The Corporate Finance Organisation (CFO) will also include units for strategy, mergers & acquisitions and business development.

Safety, Security & Sustainability (SSU) will be established as a new functional area.

Legal & Compliance (LEG), Communication (COM) and People & Organisation (PO) will remain as functional areas.

The announced changes in the corporate structure will support continuous improvement and reduce the overall number of leadership positions but does not in itself lead to redundancies.

Corporate Executive Committee

“The changes in the CEC team reflect a good mix of continuity and renewal, diversity and experience from across Equinor and the industry. With this new team and a highly competent organisation, we are ready to take Equinor forward together,” says Opedal.

Equinor’s Corporate Executive Committee will be as follows from 1 June 2021:

  • President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Anders Opedal.
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Executive Vice President (EVP) Svein Skeie (Acting).
  • Exploration & Production Norway (EPN), EVP Kjetil Hove.
  • Exploration & Production International (EPI), EVP Al Cook.
  • Marketing, Midstream & Processing (MMP), EVP Irene Rummelhoff.
  • Renewables (REN), EVP Pål Eitrheim.
  • Projects, Drilling & Procurement (PDP), EVP Arne Sigve Nylund.
  • Technology, Digital & Innovation (TDI), EVP Carri Lockhart.
  • Safety, Security & Sustainability (SSU), EVP Jannicke Nilsson.
  • Legal & Compliance (LEG), EVP Siv Helen Rygh Torstensen.
  • People & Organisation (PO), EVP Ana Fonseca Nordang.

The Senior Vice President (SVP) for Communication (COM) will report to the CEO and participate in the CEC as today. Jannik Lindbæk is appointed SVP COM from 1 January 2021.

The Corporate Executive Committee will be based in Norway.

The organisation structure will remain the same as it is today with a few key adjustments to ensure continuity and safe operations through the transition period from 1 January 2021 to 1 June 2021.

  • Kjetil Hove will step into the role as EVP Development & Production Norway (DPN) from 1 January 2021.
  • Al Cook will step into the role as EVP Development & Production International (DPI), and the existing Development & Production Brazil (DPB) and Global Strategy & Business Development (GSB) will be part of DPI from 1 January 2021.
  • Arne Sigve Nylund will step into the role as EVP Technology, Projects and Drilling (TPD) from 1 January 2021.

As previously announced, EVP Margareth Øvrum will retire 31 December 2020 and SVP Reidar Gjærum will step into a Senior Advisor role in the CEO Office 1 January 2020. Geir Tungesvik, who has been acting as executive vice president for Technology, Projects, and Drilling (TPD) will return to his role as senior vice president of Projects (PRD) 1 January 2021. Tore Løseth will continue as acting EVP for Exploration until 1. June 2021.

EVP Torgrim Reitan has decided to step down as EVP Development & Production International to take on a new position within Equinor. He has been a member of the CEC since 2011 as Chief Financial Officer, EVP for Development & Production USA and EVP for Development & Production International. From 1 January 2021, he will take on the role as SVP Finance & Control in the Renewables business area, supporting the ambition to accelerate profitable growth in renewables.

“I would like to thank Torgrim for his strong contributions as a member of the executive leadership team for a decade. It was under his leadership forceful actions were taken to improve profitability, improve safety performance and solve internal control problems in the US business. His experience and competence will be a tremendous asset to further accelerate and realise our ambitions within renewables in Equinor. I would also like to thank Geir for his contribution to the CEC as acting EVP for TPD,” says Opedal.

Carri Lockhart is a U.S. citizen and joined Equinor in 2016. She comes from the position as Senior Vice President Portfolio & Partner Operated in Development & Production International, which she has held since August 2018.

Prior to this, Lockhart was Senior Vice President for Equinor’s U.S. Offshore business. Lockhart started her career with Marathon Oil as a reservoir engineer in Anchorage, Alaska. Lockhart has held a variety of leadership roles across the upstream organization with experience in offshore, onshore conventional and unconventional assets, field supervision, facilities construction and operations, international country management, strategic planning and business development.

Lockhart has a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from Montana College of Mineral Science and Technology.

Kjetil Hove is a Norwegian citizen and joined Norsk Hydro in 1991. He comes from the position as Senior Vice President Field Life Extension, which he has held since January 2020.

Prior to this, Hove was Senior Vice President for Operations Technology in Development & Production Norway. Hove started his career in Norsk Hydro within petroleum technology holding various positions within exploration, field development and operations in Norway. Hove has held a variety of leadership roles, including Vice President international business development, country manager Brazil, and Senior Vice President Operations West in Development & Production Norway.
Hove has a master’s degree in petroleum engineering from Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).

Jannik Lindbæk is a Norwegian citizen and joined Equinor in 2010. He comes from the position as Vice President Corporate Communication Political & Public Affairs Norway, which he has held since August 2019.

Prior to this, Lindbæk was Equinor’s Vice President for communication in Brussels, in Media Relations, and in the CFO Global Business Services. Before joining Equinor, Lindbæk was SVP Corporate Communication in Aker Solutions, PR manager in Microsoft and PR consultant in BWPR and GCI Monsen.
Lindbæk holds a master’s degree in Comparative Politics from the University of Bergen and London School of Economics.

Contacts

Investor relations:

Peter Hutton, senior vice president, Investor Relations,
+44 7881 918792 (mobile)

Media relations:

Bård Glad Pedersen, vice president, Media Relations,
+47 918 01 791 (mobile)

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

Attachment



Study Investigates Effects of Patient Blood Management Program with Masimo SpHb®, Noninvasive, Continuous Hemoglobin Monitoring, on Postoperative Cancer Patients

Study Investigates Effects of Patient Blood Management Program with Masimo SpHb®, Noninvasive, Continuous Hemoglobin Monitoring, on Postoperative Cancer Patients

Patient Blood Management with Masimo SpHb Increased Transfusion Appropriateness and Decreased RBC Units Transfused per Patient

NEUCHATEL, Switzerland–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Masimo (NASDAQ: MASI) announced today the findings of a study published in Blood Transfusion in which Dr. Lucia Merolle and colleagues at the Azienda USL-IRCCS of Reggio Emilia, Italy investigated the impact of applying a patient blood management program, including use of noninvasive and continuous hemoglobin monitoring, Masimo SpHb®, to the care of postoperative cancer patients.1 The study found that using SpHb as part of a patient blood management program not only increased how often postoperative blood transfusions were appropriate, but decreased the total and mean number of blood units transfused per patient.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201115005174/en/

Masimo Radical-7® with SpHb® (Photo: Business Wire)

Masimo Radical-7® with SpHb® (Photo: Business Wire)

Patient blood management (PBM) is “an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach aimed at optimizing the care of patients who might need blood transfusions.” Recognizing that PBM might have specific benefits for surgical oncology patients, the researchers implemented a two-step PBM program and compared three groups of postoperative adult cancer patients who underwent major surgery between 2014 and 2017. Step 1 PBM included seminars and training designed to teach semi-intensive post-surgical personnel the principles of PBM. Step 2 PBM added the use of SpHb monitored with Masimo Radical-7® Pulse CO-Oximeters® with SpHb. Audit 1 reviewed data for 200 patients whose post-surgical care did not incorporate PBM. Audit 2 was of 200 patients whose care incorporated Stage 1 PBM, and Audit 3 was of 200 patients whose care incorporated Stage 2 PBM along with continuous SpHb monitoring.

Using guidelines developed by the Italian Society of Transfusion Medicine and Immunohaematology (SIMTI), the researchers found that transfusion appropriateness rose from 38% in Audit 1 patients, to 75% in Audit 2 patients (Step 1 PBM), to 79% in Audit 3 patients (Step 2 PBM, with SpHb). The total number of red blood cell (RBC) units transfused was similar for Audit 1 and Audit 2 patients (52 and 58 units, respectively), but dropped to 39 units with the addition of SpHb monitoring to PBM (Audit 3). The mean number of RBC units transfused was the same for Audit 1 and Audit 2 patients (1.8 units/patient), but again, with the addition of SpHb monitoring (Audit 3), the mean dropped to 1.3 units/patient.

The researchers concluded, “Our PBM bundle positively impacted RBC transfusion appropriateness in post-surgical cancer patients, both in terms of quality and quantity. A structured PBM program specifically dedicated to surgical oncology should cover the entire perioperative period and might further improve transfusion appropriateness in these patients. The publication of guidelines on the management of anemia in surgical oncology should be a priority.”

In other clinical studies, continuous monitoring with SpHb as part of PBM programs has been found to improve outcomes, such as reducing the percentage of patients receiving transfusions,2 reducing the units of red blood cells transfused per patient,3-4 reducing the time to transfusion,5 reducing costs,6 and even reducing mortality 30 and 90 days after surgery by 33% and 29%, respectively.7 With the addition of the Italian study, the evidence of SpHb’s impact on outcomes spans the globe, representing 6 countries on 4 different continents.1-7 Today, SpHb technology supports clinicians in over 75 countries around the world.8

SpHb is not intended to replace laboratory blood testing. Clinical decisions regarding red blood cell transfusions should be based on the clinician’s judgment considering, among other factors, patient condition, continuous SpHb monitoring, and laboratory diagnostic tests using blood samples.

@Masimo | #Masimo

About Masimo

Masimo (NASDAQ: MASI) is a global medical technology company that develops and produces a wide array of industry-leading monitoring technologies, including innovative measurements, sensors, patient monitors, and automation and connectivity solutions. Our mission is to improve patient outcomes and reduce the cost of care. Masimo SET® Measure-through Motion and Low Perfusion™ pulse oximetry, introduced in 1995, has been shown in over 100 independent and objective studies to outperform other pulse oximetry technologies.9 Masimo SET® has also been shown to help clinicians reduce severe retinopathy of prematurity in neonates,10 improve CCHD screening in newborns,11 and, when used for continuous monitoring with Masimo Patient SafetyNet™ in post-surgical wards, reduce rapid response team activations, ICU transfers, and costs.12-15 Masimo SET® is estimated to be used on more than 200 million patients in leading hospitals and other healthcare settings around the world,16 and is the primary pulse oximetry at 9 of the top 10 hospitals according to the 2020-21 U.S. News and World Report Best Hospitals Honor Roll.17 Masimo continues to refine SET® and in 2018, announced that SpO2 accuracy on RD SET® sensors during conditions of motion has been significantly improved, providing clinicians with even greater confidence that the SpO2 values they rely on accurately reflect a patient’s physiological status. In 2005, Masimo introduced rainbow® Pulse CO-Oximetry technology, allowing noninvasive and continuous monitoring of blood constituents that previously could only be measured invasively, including total hemoglobin (SpHb®), oxygen content (SpOC™), carboxyhemoglobin (SpCO®), methemoglobin (SpMet®), Pleth Variability Index (PVi®), RPVi™ (rainbow® PVi), and Oxygen Reserve Index (ORi™). In 2013, Masimo introduced the Root® Patient Monitoring and Connectivity Platform, built from the ground up to be as flexible and expandable as possible to facilitate the addition of other Masimo and third-party monitoring technologies; key Masimo additions include Next Generation SedLine® Brain Function Monitoring, O3® Regional Oximetry, and ISA™ Capnography with NomoLine® sampling lines. Masimo’s family of continuous and spot-check monitoring Pulse CO-Oximeters® includes devices designed for use in a variety of clinical and non-clinical scenarios, including tetherless, wearable technology, such as Radius-7® and Radius PPG™, portable devices like Rad-67™, fingertip pulse oximeters like MightySat® Rx, and devices available for use both in the hospital and at home, such as Rad-97®. Masimo hospital automation and connectivity solutions are centered around the Masimo Hospital Automation™ platform, and include Iris Gateway®, Patient SafetyNet, Replica™, Halo ION™, UniView™, UniView: 60™, and Masimo SafetyNet™. Additional information about Masimo and its products may be found at www.masimo.com. Published clinical studies on Masimo products can be found at www.masimo.com/evidence/featured-studies/feature/.

ORi and RPVi have not received FDA 510(k) clearance and are not available for sale in the United States. The use of the trademark Patient SafetyNet is under license from University HealthSystem Consortium.

References

  1. Merolle L, Marraccini C, Di Bartolomeo E, Montella M, Pertinhez T, Baricchi R, Bonini A. Postoperative patient blood management: transfusion appropriateness in cancer patients. Blood Transfus 2020; 18: 359-65 DOI 10.2450/2020.0048-20.
  2. Ehrenfeld JM et al. Continuous Non-invasive Hemoglobin Monitoring during Orthopedic Surgery: A Randomized Trial. J Blood Disorders Transf. 2014. 5:9. 2.
  3. Awada WN et al. Continuous and noninvasive hemoglobin monitoring reduces red blood cell transfusion during neurosurgery: a prospective cohort study. J Clin Monit Comput. 2015 Feb 4.
  4. Imaizumi et al. Continuous and noninvasive hemoglobin monitoring may reduce excessive intraoperative RBC transfusion. Proceedings from the 16th World Congress of Anaesthesiologists, Hong Kong. Abstract #PR607.
  5. Kamal AM et al. The Value of Continuous Noninvasive Hemoglobin Monitoring in Intraoperative Blood Transfusion Practice During Abdominal Cancer Surgery. Open J Anesth. 2016;13-19.
  6. Ribed-Sánchez B et al. Economic Analysis of the Reduction of Blood Transfusions during Surgical Procedures While Continuous Hemoglobin Monitoring is Used. Sensors. 2018, 18, 1367; doi:10.3390/s18051367.
  7. Cros J et al. Continuous hemoglobin and plethysmography variability index monitoring can modify blood transfusion practice and is associated with lower mortality. J Clin Monit Comp. 3 Aug 2019. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10877-019-00367-z.
  8. Masimo data on file.
  9. Published clinical studies on pulse oximetry and the benefits of Masimo SET® can be found on our website at http://www.masimo.com. Comparative studies include independent and objective studies which are comprised of abstracts presented at scientific meetings and peer-reviewed journal articles.
  10. Castillo A et al. Prevention of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Preterm Infants through Changes in Clinical Practice and SpO2 Technology. Acta Paediatr. 2011 Feb;100(2):188-92.
  11. de-Wahl Granelli A et al. Impact of pulse oximetry screening on the detection of duct dependent congenital heart disease: a Swedish prospective screening study in 39,821 newborns. BMJ. 2009;Jan 8;338.
  12. Taenzer A et al. Impact of pulse oximetry surveillance on rescue events and intensive care unit transfers: a before-and-after concurrence study. Anesthesiology. 2010:112(2):282-287.
  13. Taenzer A et al. Postoperative Monitoring – The Dartmouth Experience. Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation Newsletter. Spring-Summer 2012.
  14. McGrath S et al. Surveillance Monitoring Management for General Care Units: Strategy, Design, and Implementation. The Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety. 2016 Jul;42(7):293-302.
  15. McGrath S et al. Inpatient Respiratory Arrest Associated With Sedative and Analgesic Medications: Impact of Continuous Monitoring on Patient Mortality and Severe Morbidity. J Patient Saf. 2020 14 Mar. DOI: 10.1097/PTS.0000000000000696.
  16. Estimate: Masimo data on file.
  17. http://health.usnews.com/health-care/best-hospitals/articles/best-hospitals-honor-roll-and-overview.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements as defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, in connection with the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding the potential effectiveness of Masimo SpHb®. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations about future events affecting us and are subject to risks and uncertainties, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control and could cause our actual results to differ materially and adversely from those expressed in our forward-looking statements as a result of various risk factors, including, but not limited to: risks related to our assumptions regarding the repeatability of clinical results; risks related to our belief that Masimo’s unique noninvasive measurement technologies, including Masimo SpHb, contribute to positive clinical outcomes and patient safety; risks related to our belief that Masimo noninvasive medical breakthroughs provide cost-effective solutions and unique advantages; risks related to COVID-19; as well as other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our most recent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which may be obtained for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know whether our expectations will prove correct. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of today’s date. We do not undertake any obligation to update, amend or clarify these statements or the “Risk Factors” contained in our most recent reports filed with the SEC, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under the applicable securities laws.

Masimo

Evan Lamb
949-396-3376

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: North America United States Switzerland Europe Italy California

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Biotechnology Surgery Medical Devices Health Oncology

MEDIA:

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Masimo Radical-7® with SpHb® (Photo: Business Wire)

New Maginito Website and Presentation

LONDON and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mkango Resources Ltd. (AIM/TSX-V: MKA) (the “Company” or “Mkango”) is pleased to announce the launch of a new website for Maginito Limited (“Maginito”) (www.maginito.com), together with a new Maginito company presentation, available for download from the website via the following link: https://maginito.com/site/assets/files/1/20201103_maginito_presentation-1.pdf

Maginito is 75.5% owned by Mkango, which is completing a Feasibility Study for the Songwe Hill rare earths project in Malawi, and 24.5% owned by Talaxis Limited (“Talaxis”), which is focused on investment in and development of technology metal opportunities.

Maginito was established to pursue downstream green technology opportunities in the rare earths supply chain, encompassing neodymium (NdFeB) magnet recycling as well as innovative rare earth alloy, magnet and separation technologies.

Maginito’s strategy is underpinned by offtake rights for sustainably sourced primary and secondary raw materials, and geared to accelerating growth in the electric vehicle sector, wind power generation and other industries driven by decarbonisation of the economy.

In January 2020, Maginito acquired a 25% interest in UK based NdFeB magnet recycler, HyProMag Limited (“HyProMag”), with an option to increase to 49%. HyProMag is focused on short loop NdFeB magnet recycling using a hydrogen-based technology (HPMS) developed at the Magnetic Materials Group (MMG) within the University of Birmingham. HyProMag is a partner in the Innovate UK grant funded project, “Rare-Earth Recycling for E-Machines” (“RaRE”) together with University of Birmingham, Advanced Electric Machines Research Limited, Bentley Motors Limited, Intelligent Lifecycle Solutions Limited and Unipart Powertrain Applications Limited, which will for the first time establish an end to end supply chain to incorporate recycled rare earth magnets into electric vehicles.

Maginito is currently evaluating a number of other complementary downstream technology opportunities.

About
HyProMag

The Magnetic Materials Group within the School of Metallurgy and Materials at the University of Birmingham has been active in the field of rare earth alloys and processing of permanent magnets using hydrogen for over 40 years. Originated by Professor Rex Harris, the hydrogen decrepitation method, which is used to reduce NdFeB alloys to a powder, is now ubiquitously employed in worldwide magnet processing.

In a further development, the MMG patented a process for extracting and demagnetising NdFeB powders from magnets embedded in redundant equipment using hydrogen in a process called HPMS (Hydrogen Processing of Magnet Scrap). This patent and related intellectual property is at the core of HyProMag’s business. The MMG continues to develop new research and development opportunities, cooperates widely in Europe, including a major EU project, SusMagPro, which is also focused on recycling of magnets. The directors of HyProMag all provide their expertise to the MMG and there is potential for HyProMag to gain possible future access to new intellectual property.

HyProMag is also a partner in the Innovate UK grant funded project, “Rare-Earth Recycling for E-Machines” (“RaRE”) together with University of Birmingham, Advanced Electric Machines Research Limited, Bentley Motors Limited, Intelligent Lifecycle Solutions Limited and Unipart Powertrain Applications Limited.

RaRE will for the first time establish an end to end supply chain to incorporate recycled rare earth magnets into electric vehicles, whereby recycled magnets will be built into an ancillary electric motor to ultimately support the development of a commercial ancillary motor suite.

HyProMag’s strategy is to establish a recycling facility for NdFeB magnets at Tyseley in Birmingham to provide a sustainable solution for the supply of NdFeB magnets and alloy powders for a wide range of markets including, for example, automotive and electronics. A number of product options are being evaluated including hydrogen decrepitated (HD) demagnetised powders suitable for magnet producers, alloy ingot remelted from HD powders suitable for alloy feed or magnet production, anisotropic alloy powders (HDDR) for bonded magnets and sintered NdFeB magnets as required by the RaRE project for automotive applications.

The founding directors of HyProMag, comprising Professor Emeritus Rex Harris, former Head of the MMG, Professor Allan Walton, current Head of the MMG, and two Honorary Fellows, Dr John Speight and Mr David Kennedy, are leading world experts in the field of rare earth magnetic materials, alloys and hydrogen technology, and have significant industry experience. Following the investment by Maginito, HyProMag appointed William Dawes, a Director of Maginito and Chief Executive Officer of Mkango, to the Board of HyProMag.

For more information, please visit https://hypromag.com/ 

A
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M
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an
go

Mkango’s primary business is exploration for rare earth elements and associated minerals in the Republic of Malawi, a country whose hospitable people have earned it a reputation as “the warm heart of Africa”. The Company holds interests in four exclusive prospecting licenses in Malawi: the Phalombe licence, the Thambani licence, the Chimimbe Hill licence and the Mchinji licence.

The main exploration target in the 51% held Phalombe licence is the Songwe Hill rare earths deposit. This features carbonatite-hosted rare earth mineralisation and was subject to previous exploration in the late 1980s. Mkango completed an updated Pre-Feasibility Study for the project in November 2015 and a Feasibility Study is currently underway, the initial phases of which included a 10,900 metre drilling programme and an updated mineral resource estimate, announced in February 2019. In March 2019, the Company announced receipt of a £7 million (C$12.3 million) investment from Talaxis to fund completion of the Feasibility Study. Following completion of the Feasibility Study, Talaxis has an option to acquire a further 26% interest in Songwe by arranging financing for project development including funding the equity component thereof.

The main exploration targets in Mkango’s remaining three 100% held licences are, in the Thambani licence, uranium, niobium, tantalum and zircon, in the Chimimbe Hill licence, nickel and cobalt, and in the Mchinji licence, rutile, nickel, cobalt, base metals and graphite. Mkango recently announced commencement of an extensive exploration program following a new rutile discovery within the Mchinji licence.

Mkango also holds a 75.5% interest in Maginito with the balance owned by Talaxis. Maginito is focused on downstream opportunities relating to the rare earths supply chain, in particular, recycling and other innovative technologies for the production of neodymium alloy powders and magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines and other industries geared to decarbonisation of the economy.

For more information, please visit www.mkango.ca

About
Talaxis

Founded in 2016, Talaxis is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Noble Group Holdings Limited and invests in and develops projects that are related to technology metals, with a special focus on rare earth elements. Talaxis focuses on battery and electric vehicle materials such as nickel, lithium, graphite and vanadium. Talaxis has supply chain partners in the upstream and midstream segments, and also focuses on research and development solutions for industrial consumers in the downstream segment. Talaxis prioritises sustainable ventures with a strong emphasis on corporate social responsibility. These include projects that contribute to the decarbonisation of the economy and that are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of that term under applicable securities laws) with respect to Mkango, its business and the Project. Generally, forward looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “is expected”, “scheduled”, “estimates” “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results “can”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “will”, occur or be achieved, or the negative connotations thereof. Forward looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the global market for rare earth metals, completion of the feasibility study for Songwe, investments by Maginito in Hypromag and of the plans and results with respect to Maginito and HyProMag, as well as plans for Tyseley. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause actual performance and results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, without limiting the foregoing, governmental action relating to COVID-19, COVID-19 and other market effects on global demand for the metals and associated downstream products for which Mkango is exploring, researching and developing, the positive results of a feasibility study on the Project and delays in obtaining financing or governmental or stock exchange approvals. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of, or statements made by, third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

For further information on Mkango, please contact:
 
Mkango Resources Limited
William Dawes   Alexander Lemon
Chief Executive Officer   President

[email protected]
 
[email protected]
 
Canada: +1 403 444 5979    
     

www.mkango.ca
  
@MkangoResources   
     
Blytheweigh   
Financial Public Relations   
Tim Blythe   
UK: +44 207 138 3204   
     
SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP   
Nominated Adviser and Joint Broker   
Jeff Keating, Caroline Rowe   
UK: +44 20 3470 0470   
     
Alternative Resource Capital   
Joint Broker   
Alex Wood   
UK: +44 20 7186 9004   


The TSX Venture Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any equity or other securities of the Company in the United States. The securities of the Company will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) and may not be offered or sold within the United States to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons except in certain transactions exempt from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act.



PureTech to Present at Three Upcoming Investor Conferences

PureTech to Present at Three Upcoming Investor Conferences

BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–PureTech Health plc (LSE: PRTC, Nasdaq: PRTC) (“PureTech” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotherapeutics company dedicated to discovering, developing and commercializing highly differentiated medicines for devastating diseases, today announced that members of the Management Team will present at the following upcoming virtual investor conferences. Webcasts of the presentations will be available at https://investors.puretechhealth.com.

Jefferies 2020 Virtual London Healthcare Conference

Presenter: Daphne Zohar, founder and chief executive officer

Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Time: 9:05 AM EST

Piper Sandler 32nd Annual Virtual Healthcare Conference

Presenters: Daphne Zohar, founder and chief executive officer; Eric Elenko, chief innovation officer

Date: Fireside Chat available as of 10:00 AM EST on Monday, November 23, 2020

Evercore ISI 3rd Annual HealthCONx Conference

Presenters: Daphne Zohar, founder and chief executive officer; Eric Elenko, chief innovation officer

Date: Thursday, December 3, 2020

Time: 4:20 PM EST

About PureTech Health

PureTech is a clinical-stage biotherapeutics company dedicated to discovering, developing and commercializing highly differentiated medicines for devastating diseases, including intractable cancers, lymphatic and gastrointestinal diseases, central nervous system disorders and inflammatory and immunological diseases, among others. The Company has created a broad and deep pipeline through the expertise of its experienced research and development team and its extensive network of scientists, clinicians and industry leaders. This pipeline, which is being advanced both internally and through PureTech’s Founded Entities, is comprised of 24 products and product candidates, including two that have received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance and European marketing authorization. All of the underlying programs and platforms that resulted in this pipeline of product candidates were initially identified or discovered and then advanced by the PureTech team through key validation points based on the Company’s unique insights into the biology of the brain, immune and gut, or BIG, systems and the interface between those systems, referred to as the BIG Axis.

For more information, visit www.puretechhealth.com or connect with us on Twitter @puretechh.

Forward Looking Statement

This press release contains statements that are or may be forward-looking statements, including statements that relate to the company’s future prospects, developments, and strategies. The forward looking statements are based on current expectations and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance and achievements to differ materially from current expectations, including, but not limited to, those risks and uncertainties described in the risk factors included in the regulatory filings for PureTech Health plc. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions regarding the present and future business strategies of the company and the environment in which it will operate in the future. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as at the date of this press release. Except as required by law and regulatory requirements, neither the company nor any other party intends to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investors

Allison Mead Talbot

+1 617 651 3156

[email protected]

U.S. Media

Stephanie Simon

+1 617 581 9333

[email protected]

KEYWORDS: Europe United States United Kingdom North America Massachusetts

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Medical Devices Health Technology Software Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

MEDIA:

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U.S. Bank expands its Global Fund Services offerings, opens Luxembourg office

U.S. Bank expands its Global Fund Services offerings, opens Luxembourg office

MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
U.S. Bank today announced the opening of their Luxembourg office, which provides fund accounting and administration, domiciliation, depositary and custody-related services for Luxembourg-domiciled funds.

Didier Delvaux, who joined U.S. Bank earlier this year as Luxembourg Country Head, will oversee the office. He has more than 25 years of fund administration and custody experience. Prior to joining U.S. Bank, Delvaux was at State Street, where he was head of fund administration, and prior to that, chief operating officer, Luxembourg and Ireland.

“As we expand our Global Fund Services business, we’re committed to supporting clients’ needs with our customizable service offerings, state-of-the-art digital tools and exemplary client service,” Delvaux said. “Clients are looking for expertise they can trust; they want a provider with a deep understanding of the industry, investments and their goals. Given the complexity and volatility of the current regulatory and market environment, it’s essential for clients to find a provider who is intimately familiar with local regulatory nuances.

“Our initial focus will be on private equity and private debt funds, where our capabilities are unparalleled in the market. We are making a long-term commitment to the Luxembourg market, as demonstrated by our brand-new office in the Kirchberg financial center.”

U.S. Bank has had a presence in Europe for more than 14 years and has 10 offices housing more than 2,800 employees. U.S. Bank’s investment services division has more than $7.7 trillion in assets under custody and administration globally. In addition to offering alternative investment and fund administration services, they also offer investment services products such as custody, full depositary and global corporate trust products, including structured finance, conventional debt and collateralized loan obligations.

Delvaux added, “We take great pride in maintaining a strong and ethical reputation in the industry. With 50 years in the fund servicing business, backed by the power of the fifth largest commercial bank in the United States, U.S. Bank offers clients a level of service and financial strength that few in the industry can match.”

U.S. Bank is an active member of Luxembourg Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (LPEA), Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry (ALFI) and Luxembourg for Finance (LFF) to remain deeply engrained in the local market.

About U.S. Bank

U.S. Bancorp, with more than 70,000 employees and $540 billion in assets as of Sept. 30, 2020, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association, the fifth-largest commercial bank in the United States. The Minneapolis-based bank blends its relationship teams, branches and ATM network with mobile and online tools that allow customers to bank how, when and where they prefer. U.S. Bank is committed to serving its millions of retail, business, wealth management, payment, commercial and corporate, and investment services customers across the country and around the world as a trusted financial partner, a commitment recognized by the Ethisphere Institute naming the bank one of the 2020 World’s Most Ethical Companies. Visit U.S. Bank at usbank.com or follow on social media to stay up to date with company news.

About U.S. Bank Global Fund Services

Our global fund services team combines industry-leading technology with high-quality customer service to offer customized product solutions for alternative investments, mutual funds and exchange-traded products. This team and our corporate trust and custody teams compose our Investment Services division, which in total, holds more than $7.7 trillion in assets under custody and administration. We operate a network of more than 4,500 employees in more than 105 offices across the U.S. and Europe to fully support your unique local, national and international needs. Grounded on the highest ethical standards, we partner with you to provide reliable and responsive corporate trust, custody and fund services tailored to our diverse client base. U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Ireland) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland under the Investment Intermediaries Act, 1995. For more information about our comprehensive investment services offerings, visit us at usbank.com/investmentservices.

Elavon Financial Services DAC Luxembourg Branch (trading as U.S. Bank Depositary Services Luxembourg) is registered in Luxembourg with RCS number B244276 and Registered Office: Floor 3, K2 Ballade, 4, rue Albert Borschette, L-1246 Luxembourg, regulated and authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) as well as by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the CBI and the CSSF are available from us on request.

U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l. is registered in Luxembourg with RCS number B238278 and Registered Office: Floor 3, K2 Ballade, 4, rue Albert Borschette, L-1246 Luxembourg. U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l. is authorised and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier.

Kimberly Mikrot, U.S. Bank Public Affairs & Communications

[email protected] | 612.206.2553

KEYWORDS: Europe Luxembourg United States North America Minnesota

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Banking Professional Services Finance

MEDIA:

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TransGlobe Energy Corporation Announces Third Quarter 2020 Financial and Operating Results for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

This Announcement contains inside information as defined in Article 7 of the Market Abuse Regulation No. 596/2014 (“MAR”). Upon the publication of this Announcement, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain.

AIM & TSX:  “TGL” & NASDAQ:  “TGA”

CALGARY, Alberta, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TransGlobe Energy Corporation (“TransGlobe” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce its financial and operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020. All dollar values are expressed in United States dollars unless otherwise stated. TransGlobe’s Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements together with the notes related thereto, as well as TransGlobe’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, are available on TransGlobe’s website at www.trans-globe.com.

HIGHLIGHTS
:

  • TransGlobe is focused on conserving cash in the current low commodity price environment. The Company ended the third quarter with positive working capital of $12.7 million, including cash and cash equivalents of $27.1 million;
  • Third quarter production averaged 12,044 boe/d (Egypt 9,812 bbls/d, Canada 2,232 boe/d), a decrease of 2,256 boe/d (16%) from the previous quarter primarily due to deferred well interventions in Egypt during low oil prices and natural declines;
  • Production in October averaged ~12,162 boe/d (Egypt ~10,303 bbls/d, Canada ~1,859 boe/d), an increase of 1% from Q3-2020, and below revised budget expectations primarily due to deferred well interventions in Egypt and repairs on a third-party pipeline in Canada that required the Company to shut-in certain wells for two weeks in October;
  • Sales averaged 10,680 boe/d including 259.2 Mbbls sold to EGPC for net proceeds of $10.2 million in Q3-2020. Average realized price for Q3-2020 sales of $33.63/boe; Q3-2020 average realized price on Egyptian sales of $37.15/bbl and Canadian sales of $20.80/boe;
  • Funds flow from operations of $0.3 million ($0.00 per share) in the quarter;
  • Third quarter net loss of $6.0 million ($0.08 per share), inclusive of a $0.3 million unrealized loss on derivative commodity contracts;
  • Contracted a workover rig and began well interventions in Egypt in September 2020 at West Bakr;
  • Consistent with the revised 2020 budget previously disclosed, there has been no drilling activity in Canada or Egypt during Q3-2020;
  • Business continuity plans remain effective across our locations in response to COVID-19 with no health and safety impacts or disruption to production;
  • Despite restrictions on travel, management concluded its negotiations with EGPC to amend, extend and consolidate the Company’s Eastern Desert concession agreements during the quarter. At this time, it is the Company’s belief that EGPC approval will occur in the near term; and
  • TransGlobe continues to actively evaluate M&A opportunities, with a view to not only better position the Company to weather the current downturn but also rebound strongly once commodity prices begin to strengthen.

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS

(US$000s, except per share, price, volume amounts and % change)

  Three Months Ended September 30   Nine Months Ended September 30  
Financial 2020   2019   % Change   2020   2019   % Change  
Petroleum and natural gas sales   33,046     64,388     (49 )   137,782     214,728     (36 )
Petroleum and natural gas sales, net of royalties   16,740     31,200     (46 )   81,366     111,623     (27 )
Realized derivative gain (loss) on commodity contracts   662     (112 )   691     6,807     (1,041 )   754  
Unrealized derivative (loss) gain on commodity contracts   (267 )   2,616     (110 )   761     (385 )   298  
Production and operating expense   11,473     11,564     (1 )   45,136     35,507     27  
Selling costs   54     76     (29 )   1,103     649     70  
General and administrative expense   2,542     4,102     (38 )   8,397     12,743     (34 )
Depletion, depreciation and amortization expense   5,493     8,173     (33 )   23,402     26,184     (11 )
Income tax expense   3,092     6,416     (52 )   10,122     20,095     (50 )
Cash flow (used in) generated by operating activities   (3,349 )   12,042     (128 )   17,529     21,096     (17 )
Funds flow from operations1   323     9,429     (97 )   23,241     43,700     (47 )
Basic per share   0.00     0.13           0.32     0.60        
Diluted per share   0.00     0.13           0.32     0.60        
Net (loss) earnings   (5,957 )   2,967     (301 )   (74,542 )   4,207     (1,872 )
Basic per share   (0.08 )   0.04           (1.03 )   0.06        
Diluted per share   (0.08 )   0.04           (1.03 )   0.06        
Capital expenditures   437     9,292     (95 )   7,243     25,936     (72 )
Dividends declared       2,539     (100 )       5,078     (100 )
Dividends declared per share       0.035               0.070        
Working capital   12,708     47,150     (73 )   12,708     47,150     (73 )
Long-term debt, including current portion   25,946     41,726     (38 )   25,946     41,726     (38 )
Common shares outstanding                                    
Basic (weighted average)   72,542     72,542         72,542     72,504      
Diluted (weighted average)   72,542     72,542         72,542     72,508      
Total assets   205,583     312,654     (34 )   205,583     312,654     (34 )
                                     
Operating                                    
Average production volumes (boe/d)   12,044     15,943     (24 )   13,774     16,269     (15 )
Average sales volumes (boe/d)   10,680     14,122     (24 )   15,344     15,044     2  
Inventory (Mbbls)   534.2     902.6     (41 )   534.2     902.6     (41 )
Average realized sales price ($/boe)   33.63     49.56     (32 )   32.77     52.28     (37 )
Production and operating expenses ($/boe)   11.68     8.90     31     10.74     8.65     24  
Funds flow from operations (before finance costs) is a measure that represents cash generated from operating activities before changes in non-cash working capital and may not be comparable to measures used by other companies. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures”

  2020     2019  
Average reference prices and exchange rates Q-3     Q-2     Q-1     Q-4     Q-3  
Crude oil                              
Dated Brent average oil price ($/bbl)   42.96     29.34     50.44     63.41     61.93  
Edmonton Sweet index ($/bbl)   37.35     21.71     38.59     51.56     51.76  
Natural gas                              
AECO ($/MMBtu)   1.69     1.41     1.43     1.88     1.04  
US/Canadian Dollar average exchange rate   1.33     1.39     1.35     1.32     1.32  

CORPORATE SUMMARY

TransGlobe Energy Corporation (“TransGlobe” or the “Company”) produced an average of 12,044 barrels of oil equivalent per day (“boe/d”) during the third quarter of 2020. Egypt production was 9,812 barrels of oil per day (“bbls/d”) and Canada production was 2,232 boe/d. Production for the quarter was below revised full year 2020 guidance of 13,300 to 13,800 boe/d due to deferred well interventions in Egypt during low oil prices and natural declines. It is expected that, with well interventions performed in September and Q4-2020, TransGlobe will be within full year 2020 guidance on an annual basis.

TransGlobe’s Egyptian crude oil is sold at a quality discount to Dated Brent. The Company received an average price of $37.15 per barrel in Egypt during the quarter. Gharib Blend has benefited from a relative increase in demand for heavy oil in the past nine months and the resultant decrease in the differential to Brent. For the year to date the Gharib Blend differential to Brent has been ~$4.50/bbl. In Canada, the Company received an average of $36.99 per barrel of oil, $15.65 per barrel of NGL and $1.80 per thousand cubic feet (“Mcf”) of natural gas during the quarter.

During Q3-2020, the Company had funds flow from operations of $0.3 million and ended the quarter with positive working capital of $12.7 million, including cash and cash equivalents of $27.1 million. The Company had a net loss in the quarter of $6.0 million, inclusive of a $0.3 million unrealized derivative loss on commodity contracts which represents a fair value adjustment on the Company’s hedging contracts as at September 30, 2020.

In Egypt, the Company sold 259.2 thousand barrels (“Mbbls”) of entitlement crude oil to EGPC during the quarter, and had 534.2 Mbbls of entitlement crude oil inventory at September 30, 2020. The increase in inventoried crude oil is attributed to a decrease in sales volumes, offset by a decrease in production in Q3-2020. Subsequent to the quarter, TransGlobe completed a ~452 Mbbls cargo lifting of Egypt entitlement crude oil, with proceeds expected in December. In Canada, the Company sold the Q2-2020 ending inventory balance of 6.3 Mbbls of Canadian light crude oil in July 2020; all Canadian production was sold during the quarter.

In Egypt, the Company contracted a workover rig to perform well interventions at West Bakr beginning in September 2020, and continuing into the fourth quarter. Consistent with the Company’s revised 2020 budget, there has been no drilling activity in Canada or Egypt during the third quarter.

Despite restrictions on travel, management concluded its negotiations with EGPC to amend, extend and consolidate the Company’s Eastern Desert concession agreements during the quarter. At this time, it is the Company’s belief that EGPC approval will occur in the near term. Following such approval, the merged concession will require parliamentary ratification. The Company will provide timely updates as developments unfold.

The Company remains forward looking and prepared to use its operational control to take advantage of any sustained upward movement in oil price. TransGlobe continues to be vigilant in its search for attractive M&A opportunities while steadfastly retaining its focus on shareholder value creation.

Crisis Mitigation Measures

TransGlobe is focused on conserving cash in the current low commodity price environment. The Company has successfully implemented the previously announced 80% reduction in the 2020 capital program and continues to monitor general and administrative (“G&A”) cost reductions. The Company estimates that G&A reduction efforts will reduce go-forward monthly G&A by approximately 35%.

The Company remains in constant communication with its lenders (Mercuria Energy Trading SA and ATB Financial) and does not anticipate deviating from its pre-crisis planned debt reduction schedule. The Company repaid C$2.0 million ($1.5 million) on the revolving Canadian reserves-based lending facility with ATB Financial in September 2020, leaving C$8.2 million ($6.2 million) drawn and outstanding of a revolving balance of up to C$15.0 million ($11.3 million).

Business continuity plans have been implemented in all our locations and operations continue as normal. The Company had three reported cases of COVID-19 in its joint venture in Egypt during Q2-2020, which were managed according to established Company, local and national quarantine guidelines. All three have recovered and returned to work with no onward infection spread reported.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Funding for the Company’s capital expenditures is provided by cash flow from operations and cash on hand. The Company is funding its 2020 development program through the use of working capital and cash flow from operations. The Company also expects to pay down debt and explore business development opportunities with its working capital. Fluctuations in commodity prices, product demand, foreign exchange rates, interest rates and various other risks may impact capital resources and capital expenditures.

Working capital is the amount by which current assets exceed current liabilities. As at September 30, 2020, the Company had a working capital surplus of $12.7 million (December 31, 2019 – $32.2 million). The decrease in working capital is primarily due to the $20 million outstanding balance of the Mercuria prepayment agreement being reclassified as current at quarter end, a decrease in cash resulting from payments on accounts payable in the period, a decrease in crude oil inventory due to increased sales to EGPC in 2020, partially offset by a corresponding increase in accounts receivable and decrease in accounts payable.

As at September 30, 2020, the Company’s cash equivalents balance consisted of short-term deposits with an original term to maturity at purchase of one month or less. All of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents are on deposit with high credit-quality financial institutions.

Over the past 10 years, the Company has experienced delays in the collection of accounts receivable from EGPC. The length of delay peaked in 2013, returned to historical delays of up to nine months in 2017, and has since fluctuated within an acceptable range. As at September 30, 2020, amounts owing from EGPC were $8.0 million. The Company considers there to be minimal credit risk associated with amounts receivable from EGPC.

In Egypt, the Company sold 259.2 Mbbls of crude oil to EGPC in Q3-2020 for net proceeds of $10.2 million. During the third quarter of 2020, the Company collected $16.4 million of accounts receivable from EGPC, an additional $1.0 million has been collected subsequent to the quarter. The Company incurs a 30-day collection cycle on sales to third-party international buyers. Depending on the Company’s assessment of the credit of crude oil purchasers, they may be required to post irrevocable letters of credit to support the sales prior to the cargo lifting. As at September 30, 2020, crude oil held as inventory was 534.2 Mbbls.

As at September 30, 2020, the Company had $86.0 million of revolving credit facilities with $26.2 million drawn and $59.8 million available. The Company has a prepayment agreement with Mercuria that allows for a revolving balance of up to $75.0 million, of which $20.0 million was drawn and outstanding as at September 30, 2020. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company repaid $10.0 million on this prepayment facility. The Company also has a revolving Canadian reserves-based lending facility with ATB that was renewed and reduced as at June 30, 2020 from C$25.0 million ($18.4 million) to C$15.0 million ($11.0 million), of which C$8.2 million ($6.2 million) was drawn and outstanding. The reduction in the ATB facility is a result of lower forecasted commodity prices and the associated impact on asset value. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company had drawings of C$0.4 million ($0.3 million) and repayments of C$2.0 million ($1.5 million) on this facility.

OPERATIONS UPDATE

ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT

EASTERN DESERT

West
Gharib
, West Bakr, and North West
Gharib
(100% working interest, operated)

Operations and Exploration

In Egypt, the Company contracted a workover rig to perform well interventions at West Bakr beginning in September 2020, and continuing into the fourth quarter.

Production

Production averaged 9,635 bbls/d during the quarter, a decrease of 18% (2,122 bbls/d) from the previous quarter. The decrease was primarily due to deferred well interventions in Egypt during low oil prices and natural declines. With the well interventions that began in September 2020, it is expected that production will be in-line with full year 2020 guidance, including South Ghazalat, of 11,200 to 11,600 bbls/d.

Production in October 2020 averaged ~10,161 bbls/d.

Sales

The Company sold 253.1 Mbbls of inventoried entitlement crude oil to EGPC during the quarter.

Quarterly Eastern Desert Production (
bbls
/d)
2020   2019  
  Q-3   Q-2   Q-1   Q-4  
Gross production rate1   9,635     11,757     12,343     12,831  
TransGlobe production (inventoried) sold   (1,432 )   (1,761 )   7,937     (674 )
Total sales   8,203     9,996     20,280     12,157  
                         
Government share (royalties and tax)   5,452     6,648     6,977     7,250  
TransGlobe sales (after royalties and tax)2   2,751     3,348     13,303     4,907  
Total sales   8,203     9,996     20,280     12,157  

1 Quarterly production by concession (bbls/d):
  West Gharib – 2,808 (Q3-2020), 3,453 (Q2-2020), 3,664 (Q1-2020), and 3,857 (Q4-2019)
  West Bakr – 6,498 (Q3-2020), 7,935 (Q2-2020), 8,277 (Q1-2020), and 8,489 (Q4-2019)
  North West Gharib – 329 (Q3-2020), 369 (Q2-2020), 402 (Q1-2020), and 485 (Q4-2019)
2 Under the terms of the Production Sharing Concession Agreements, royalties and taxes are paid out of the government’s share of production sharing oil.

WESTERN DESERT

South
Ghazalat
(100% working interest, operated)

Operations and Exploration

The SGZ-6x well continues to produce from the Upper Bahariya reservoir at a field estimated rate of ~140 bbls/d light and medium crude to evaluate the zone, restricted to the optimal operation of the early production facility.

Production

Production averaged 177 bbls/d during the quarter, a decrease of 24% (56 bbls/d) from the previous quarter.

Production in October 2020 averaged ~142 bbls/d.

Sales

The Company sold all of its entitlement crude oil production of 6.1 Mbbls in the quarter to EGPC.

CANADA

Operations and Exploration

Consistent with the Company’s revised 2020 budget, there has been no drilling or completion activity during Q3-2020.

Production

In Canada, production averaged 2,232 boe/d during the quarter, a decrease of 78 boe/d (3%) from the previous quarter and slightly above revised full year 2020 guidance of 2,100 to 2,200 boe/d. This marginal decrease was primarily due to natural declines.

The Company sold the Q2-2020 ending inventory balance of 6.3 Mbbls of Canadian light crude oil in July 2020; all Canadian production was sold during the quarter.

Production in October 2020 averaged ~1,859 boe/d with ~606 bbls/d of oil. The decrease in production in October is primarily due to necessary repairs being performed on a third-party pipeline that required the Company to shut-in certain wells for approximately two weeks.  

Quarterly Canada Production 2020   2019  
  Q-3   Q-2   Q-1   Q-4  
Canada crude oil (bbls/d)   661     706     860     908  
Canada NGLs (bbls/d)   798     826     761     735  
Canada natural gas (Mcf/d)   4,633     4,665     4,996     5,331  
Total production (boe/d)   2,232     2,310     2,453     2,531  

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of (Loss) Income and Comprehensive (Loss) Income

(Unaudited – Expressed in thousands of U.S. Dollars, except per share amounts)

       Three Months Ended
September 30
    Nine Months Ended

September 30
 
      2020     2019     2020     2019  
                             
  REVENUE                        
    Petroleum and natural gas sales, net of royalties   16,740     31,200     81,366     111,623  
    Finance revenue   9     85     101     401  
    Other revenue   106         328      
        16,855     31,285     81,795     112,024  
                             
  EXPENSES                        
    Production and operating   11,473     11,564     45,136     35,507  
    Selling costs   54     76     1,103     649  
    General and administrative   2,542     4,102     8,397     12,743  
    Foreign exchange (gain) loss   (65 )   (67 )   100     (122 )
    Finance costs   552     1,030     1,956     3,311  
    Depletion, depreciation and amortization   5,493     8,173     23,402     26,184  
    Asset retirement obligation accretion   66     51     194     156  
    (Gain) loss on financial instruments   (395 )   (2,504 )   (7,568 )   1,426  
    Impairment loss       (409 )   73,495     7,982  
    Gain on disposition of assets       (114 )       (114 )
        19,720     21,902     146,215     87,722  
                             
  (Loss) earnings before income taxes   (2,865 )   9,383     (64,420 )   24,302  
                             
  Income tax expense – current   3,092     6,416     10,122     20,095  
  NET (LOSS) EARNINGS   (5,957 )   2,967     (74,542 )   4,207  
                             
  OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)                        
    Currency translation adjustments   1,188     (410 )   (1,371 )   1,250  
  COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME   (4,769 )   2,557     (75,913 )   5,457  
                             
  Net (loss) earnings per share                        
    Basic   (0.08 )   0.04     (1.03 )   0.06  
    Diluted   (0.08 )   0.04     (1.03 )   0.06  

Condensed Consolidated Interim Balance Sheets

(Unaudited – Expressed in thousands of U.S. Dollars)

      As at   As at  
      September 30, 2020   December 31, 2019  
               
  ASSETS  
  Current  
    Cash and cash equivalents   27,065   33,251  
    Accounts receivable   11,869   10,681  
    Derivative commodity contracts   543    
    Prepaids and other   3,247   4,338  
    Product inventory   12,415   17,516  
        55,139   65,786  
  Non-Current  
    Intangible exploration and evaluation assets   584   33,706  
    Property and equipment          
    Petroleum and natural gas assets   142,535   196,150  
    Other   3,100   4,296  
    Deferred taxes   4,225   8,387  
      205,583   308,325  
               
  LIABILITIES  
  Current  
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   21,030   32,156  
    Derivative commodity contracts     217  
    Current portion of lease obligations   1,606   1,219  
    Current portion of long-term debt   19,795    
        42,431   33,592  
  Non-Current  
    Long-term debt   6,151   37,041  
    Asset retirement obligations   12,833   13,612  
    Other long-term liabilities   161   614  
    Lease obligations   865   589  
    Deferred taxes   4,225   8,387  
      66,666   93,835  
               
  SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY  
    Share capital   152,805   152,805  
    Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income   (237 ) 1,134  
    Contributed surplus   25,013   24,673  
    (Deficit) Retained earnings   (38,664 ) 35,878  
      138,917   214,490  
      205,583   308,325  

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

(Unaudited – Expressed in thousands of U.S. Dollars)

      Nine Months Ended September 30  
      2020   2019  
               
  Share Capital          
    Balance, beginning of period   152,805   152,084  
    Stock options exercised     547  
    Transfer from contributed surplus on exercise of options     174  
    Balance, end of period   152,805   152,805  
               
  Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income          
    Balance, beginning of period   1,134   (939 )
    Currency translation adjustment   (1,371 ) 1,250  
    Balance, end of period   (237 ) 311  
               
  Contributed Surplus          
    Balance, beginning of period   24,673   24,195  
    Share-based compensation expense   340   494  
    Transfer to share capital on exercise of options     (174 )
    Balance, end of period   25,013   24,515  
               
  (Deficit) Retained Earnings          
    Balance, beginning of period   35,878   44,951  
    Net (loss) earnings   (74,542 ) 4,207  
    Dividends     (5,078 )
    Balance, end of period   (38,664 ) 44,080  

        

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited – Expressed in thousands of US Dollars)

        Three Months Ended
September 30
  Nine Months Ended
September 30
 
        2020   2019   2020   2019  
                         
  OPERATING                  
    Net (loss) earnings   (5,957 ) 2,967   (74,542 ) 4,207  
    Adjustments for:                  
      Depletion, depreciation and amortization   5,493   8,173   23,402   26,184  
      Asset retirement obligation accretion   66   51   194   156  
      Impairment loss     (409 ) 73,495   7,982  
      Share-based compensation   (72 ) 406   (489 ) 1,749  
      Finance costs   552   1,030   1,956   3,311  
      Unrealized loss (gain) on financial instruments   267   (2,616 ) (761 ) 385  
      Unrealized (gain) loss on foreign currency translation   (26 ) (49 ) 6   (119 )
      Gain on asset disposition     (114 )   (114 )
    Asset retirement obligations settled     (10 ) (20 ) (41 )
    Changes in non-cash working capital   (3,672 ) 2,613   (5,712 ) (22,604 )
  Net cash (used in) generated by operating activities   (3,349 ) 12,042   17,529   21,096  
                         
  INVESTING                  
    Additions to intangible exploration and evaluation assets     (56 ) (337 ) (844 )
    Additions to petroleum and natural gas assets   (399 ) (9,197 ) (6,721 ) (24,621 )
    Additions to other assets   (38 ) (39 ) (185 ) (471 )
    Proceeds from asset dispositions     114     114  
    Changes in non-cash working capital   (1,883 ) (2,177 ) (2,545 ) (2,478 )
  Net cash used in investing activities   (2,320 ) (11,355 ) (9,788 ) (28,300 )
                         
  FINANCING                  
    Issue of common shares for cash         547  
    Interest paid   (396 ) (893 ) (1,526 ) (2,874 )
    Increase in long-term debt   114   114   282   370  
    Payments on lease obligations   (366 ) (540 ) (1,141 ) (1,430 )
    Repayments of long-term debt   (1,504 ) (6,523 ) (11,504 ) (11,523 )
    Dividends paid     (2,539 )   (5,078 )
    Changes in non-cash working capital         (200 )
  Net cash used in financing activities   (2,152 ) (10,381 ) (13,889 ) (20,188 )
                         
  Currency translation differences relating to cash and cash equivalents   49   13   (38 ) 131  
  NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS   (7,772 ) (9,681 ) (6,186 ) (27,261 )
  CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD   34,837   34,125   33,251   51,705  
  CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD   27,065   24,444   27,065   24,444  

Ad
visory on Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements included in this news release constitute forward-looking statements or forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements or information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements or information
typically contain statements with words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “would” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. In particular, forward-looking information and statements contained in this document include, but are not limited to, the plans for the Company’s 2020 Canadian drilling program and the details thereof; the Company’s expectation relating to the performance of the South
Harmattan
Cardium
prospect; and the expected benefits to the Company of consolidating, amending and extending the Company’s Eastern Desert PSCs and other matters.

Forward-looking statements or information are based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such statements and information but which may prove to be incorrect. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Many factors could cause
TransGlobe’s
actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, TransGlobe.

In addition to other factors and assumptions which may be identified in this news release, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, anticipated production volumes; the timing of drilling wells and mobilizing drilling rigs; the number of wells to be drilled; the Company’s ability to obtain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the regulatory framework governing royalties, taxes and environmental matters in the jurisdictions in which the Company conducts and will conduct its business; future capital expenditures to be made by the Company; future sources of funding for the Company’s capital programs; geological and engineering estimates in respect of the Company’s reserves and resources; the geography of the areas in which the Company is conducting exploration and development activities; current commodity prices and royalty regimes; availability of skilled
labour
; future exchange rates; the price of oil; the impact of increasing competition; conditions in general economic and financial markets; availability of drilling and related equipment; effects of regulation by governmental agencies; future operating costs; uninterrupted access to areas of
TransGlobe’s
operations and infrastructure; recoverability of reserves and future production rates; that TransGlobe will have sufficient cash flow, debt or equity sources or other financial resources required to fund its capital and operating expenditures and requirements as needed; that
TransGlobe’s
conduct and results of operations will be consistent with its expectations; that TransGlobe will have the ability to develop its properties in the manner currently contemplated; current or, where applicable, proposed industry conditions, laws and regulations will continue in effect or as anticipated as described herein; that the estimates of
TransGlobe’s
reserves and resource volumes and the assumptions related thereto (including commodity prices and development costs) are accurate in all material respects; and other matters.

Forward-looking statements or information are based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company and described in the forward-looking statements or information. These risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements or information include, among other things, operating and/or drilling costs are higher than anticipated; unforeseen changes in the rate of production from
TransGlobe’s
oil and gas properties; changes in price of crude oil and natural gas; adverse technical factors associated with exploration, development, production or transportation of
TransGlobe’s
crude oil reserves;
the potential impacts of COVID-19 to the Company’s business, operating results, cash flows and/or financial condition
;
changes or disruptions in the political or fiscal regimes in
TransGlobe’s
areas of activity; changes in tax, energy or other laws or regulations; changes in significant capital expenditures; delays or disruptions in production due to shortages of skilled manpower equipment or materials; economic fluctuations; competition; lack of availability of qualified personnel; the results of exploration and development drilling and related activities; obtaining required approvals of regulatory authorities; volatility in market prices for oil; fluctuations in foreign exchange or interest rates; environmental risks; ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; failure to negotiate the terms of contracts with counterparties; failure of counterparties to perform under the terms of their contracts; and other factors beyond the Company’s control. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Please consult
TransGlobe’s
public filings at www.sedar.com and www.sec.goedgar.shtml for further, more detailed information concerning these matters, including additional risks related to
TransGlobe’s
business.

The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Oil and Gas Advisories

Mr. Ron Hornseth, B.Sc., General Manager – Canada for TransGlobe Energy Corporation, and a qualified person as defined in the Guidance Note for Mining, Oil and Gas Companies, June 2009, of the London Stock Exchange, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this report. Mr. Hornseth is a professional engineer who obtained a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alberta. He is a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (“APEGA”) and the Society of Petroleum Engineers (“SPE”) and has over 20 years’ experience in oil and gas.

BOEs may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil equivalent (6
mcf
: 1
bbl
) is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

The following abbreviations used in this press release have the meanings set forth below:

b
bl
barrels
b
bls
/d
barrels per day
M
bbls
t
housand barrels
b
oe
barrel of oil equivalent
b
oe
/d
barrels of oil equivalent per day
MMB
tu
One million British thermal units
M
cf
thousand cubic feet
M
cf
/d
thousand cubic feet per day
NGL Natural Gas Liquids


Production Disclosure

Production Summary (WI before royalties and taxes):
  Oct – 20 Q3 – 20 Q2
– 20
Q1 – 20 Q4 – 19
Egypt (
bbls
/d
)
10,3
03
9,812 11,990 12,544 12,831
Eastern Desert
of Egypt (
bbls
/d
)
10,161 9,635 11,757 12,343 12,831
Heavy Crude (
bbl
s
/d)
9,559 9,066 11,001 11,54
8
11,984
Light and Medium Crude (
bbl
s
/d)
60
2
569 756 79
5
847
Western Desert
of Egypt (
bbls
/d
)
1
42
177 233 201
Light and Medium Crude (
bbl
s
/d)
1
42
177 233 201
Canada (
boe
/d
)
1,859 2,232 2,310 2,453 2,531
Light and Medium Crude (
bbl
s
/d)
606 661 706 860 908
Natural Gas (
M
cf
/d)
3
,774
4,633 4,665 4,996 5,334
Associated Natural Gas Liquids (
bbl
s
/d)
6
24
798 826 761 735
Total (
boe
/d
)
12,162 12,044 14,300 14,997 15,362

Production Guidance
  Low High Mid-Point
Egypt (
bbls
/d
)
11,
2
00
11,6
00
11,
4
00
Heavy Crude (
bbl
s
/d)
10,304 10,672 10,488
Light and Medium Crude (
bbl
s
/d)
896 928 912
Canada (
boe
/
d)
2,
1
00
2,
2
00
2,1
5
0
Light and Medium Crude (
bbl
s
/d)
646 677 661
Natural Gas (
M
cf
/d)
4,294 4,499 4,397
Associated Natural Gas Liquids (
bbl
s
/d)
738 774 756
Total (
boe
/d
)
13,300 1
3,8
00
13,
55
0

For further information, please contact:

 
TransGlobe Energy Via FTI Consulting
Randy Neely, President and Chief Executive Officer  
Eddie Ok, Chief Financial Officer
   
Canaccord
Genuity
(Nomad & Sole Broker)
+44 (0) 20 7523 8000
Henry Fitzgerald-O’Connor  
James Asensio  
   
FTI Consulting (Financial PR) +44 (0) 20 3727 1000
Ben Brewerton [email protected]

Genevieve Ryan
 
Tailwind Associates (Investor Relations)  
Darren Engels [email protected]

http://www.tailwindassociates.ca

+1 403.618.8035

[email protected]
http://www.trans-globe.com
+1 403.264.9888



Gordon Brothers Scales Up Special Situations Lending and Investing Platform

Gordon Brothers Sells Interest in Gordon Brothers Finance Company

Boston, Nov. 16, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gordon Brothers, the global advisory, restructuring and investment firm, scales up its special situations lending and investment platform through the addition of half a dozen key industry veterans from leading lending institutions across the globe. In conjunction with the expanding team and enhanced platform, Gordon Brothers sold its minority interest in Gordon Brothers Finance Company (“GBFC”), a private commercial finance company on November 3. 

Gordon Brothers special situations lending and investing solutions will continue to provide both short- and long-term transition capital to clients undergoing transformation. Additionally, Gordon Brothers invests directly in brands, real estate, inventory, receivables, machinery, equipment and other assets both together and individually to provide broader solutions beyond the firm’s market-leading disposition and appraisal services.  

“Gordon Brothers partners with management teams, private equity, strategic buyers and asset-based lenders, who often invite us into non-standard transactions when the combination of our expertise and additional capital is required,” said Ken Frieze, CEO of Gordon Brothers.

Gordon Brothers has a unique approach to risk analysis and a deep understanding of asset value and business operations, allowing the firm to design creative liquidity solutions for companies across the globe.

“This is an exciting time for Gordon Brothers,” said Frieze. “Using our core asset expertise and significant financial resources, we will continue to provide transformational capital that expands our clients’ options by minimizing risk and maximizing opportunity at all points in the business cycle.”

Gordon Brothers provides capital to companies in special situations on a fully collateralized basis. The firm’s tailor-made solutions –ranging from asset acquisition to financing to investments– provide clients with additional capital alongside traditional debt and equity.

Since 2014, Gordon Brothers has had an exclusive, strategic partnership with GBFC focused on asset-based loans for middle-market companies. As a result of the sale the exclusive partnership has terminated, and Gordon Brothers will expand special situations investments and other financing solutions for customers directly under the Gordon Brothers name.

 

About Gordon Brothers

Since 1903, Gordon Brothers (www.gordonbrothers.com) has helped lenders, operating companies, advisors and investors move forward through change. The firm brings a powerful combination of expertise and capital. With services in valuations, dispositions, operations and investments, Gordon Brothers provides customized solutions on an integrated or standalone basis for clients at all points in the business lifecycle. Whether to fuel growth or facilitate strategic consolidation, Gordon Brothers works across industries and around the world to put assets to their highest and best use. Gordon Brothers conducts more than $70 billion worth of dispositions, appraisals and investments annually. Gordon Brothers is headquartered in Boston, with 25 offices across five continents.



Nicole Trice
Gordon Brothers
617-422-6569
[email protected]

BBVA sells U.S. subsidiary to PNC for $11.6 billion

PR Newswire

MADRID, Nov. 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — BBVA has agreed to sell to PNC its subsidiary in the U.S. for $11.6 billion (€9.7 billion1) in cash, an amount that represents 19.7 times the unit’s 2019 earnings2, and that is almost 50% of BBVA’s current market capitalization, creating significant value for shareholders. The transaction will have a positive impact on BBVA’s fully loaded CET1 ratio of c.300 basis points, or €8.5 billion of CET1 generation.

“This is a very positive transaction for all sides. PNC has recognized the great value of our unique client franchise and of our great team in the US, who will be part of a leading financial services group in the country,” said BBVA Group executive chairman Carlos Torres Vila. “The deal enhances our already strong financial position. We will have ample flexibility to profitably deploy capital in our markets strengthening our long-term growth profile and supporting economies in the recovery phase, and to increase distributions to shareholders.”

In the U.S., BBVA is a Sunbelt-based bank with more than $100 billion in assets and 637 branches, with leading market shares in Texas, Alabama and Arizona. After the closing of the transaction, PNC, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, will become the country’s fifth-largest bank by assets. The transaction excludes the broker dealer (BBVA Securities) and the branch in New York, through which BBVA will continue to provide corporate & investment banking services to its large corporate and institutional clients. It also excludes the representative office in San Francisco and the fintech investment fund Propel Venture Partners.

“Our acquisition will accelerate our growth trajectory and drive long-term shareholder value,” said William S. Demchak, PNC’s chairman, president and chief executive officer. “This transaction is an opportunity to navigate our future from a position of strength, accelerating PNC’s expansion while drawing on our experience as a disciplined acquirer. We are excited to bring our industry-leading technology and innovative products and services to new markets and clients, leveraging our mutual commitment to building diverse and high performing teams and supporting the communities we serve.”

The all-cash deal by PNC values the business sold at 19.7 times its 2019 earnings and 1.34 times its tangible book value, as of September, 2020. Additionally, the deal unlocks hidden value as the price is more than 2.5 times the average valuation assigned by analysts to the business (€3.8 billion), for a business that represented less than 10%3 of FY2019 Group’s net attributable profit. Also the price represents almost 50% of BBVA’s current market capitalization4.

The transaction will have a positive impact on the fully loaded CET1 ratio of c.300 basis points, or €8.5 billion of CET1 generation. Including this positive impact, the Group’s pro-forma fully loaded CET1 ratio would reach 14.5% as of September, 2020. With the transaction, BBVA will have additional flexibility to invest in its markets and increase distributions to shareholders, with a sizeable buyback5 as an attractive option at current share prices. The sale will generate a capital gain net of taxes of approximately €580 million and BBVA Group’s tangible book value will increase by €1.4 billion.

The deal is expected to close in mid-2021 once the required regulatory approvals have been obtained.

J.P. Morgan Securities plc served as exclusive financial advisor to BBVA, and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP served as legal advisor. Bank of America, Citi, Evercore and PNC Financial Institutions Advisory acted as financial advisers to PNC and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz was legal counsel.

For more BBVA news visit, www.bbva.com.

BBVA Group

BBVA [NYSE: BBVA] is a customer-centric global financial services group founded in 1857. The Group has a strong leadership position in the Spanish market, is the largest financial institution in Mexico, it has leading franchises in South America and the Sunbelt Region of the United States. It is also the leading shareholder in Turkey’s Garanti BBVA. Its purpose is to bring the age of opportunities to everyone, based on our customers’ real needs: provide the best solutions, helping them make the best financial decisions, through an easy and convenient experience. The institution rests in solid values: Customer comes first, we think big and we are one team. Its responsible banking model aspires to achieve a more inclusive and sustainable society.

1 EUR / USD exchange rate of 1.20
2 Considers $587mn 2019FY results for the business sold
3 Excluding negative result of the Corporate Center
4 As of November 13th
5 Any potential repurchase would at the earliest take place after the expected close of the transaction in mid-2021. Any proposed repurchase would (i) take into consideration share prices, among other factors and (ii) require Shareholders and Supervisory approvals and the lifting of the ECB’s recommendation on distributions to shareholders.

 

Cision View original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bbva-sells-us-subsidiary-to-pnc-for-11-6-billion-301173381.html

SOURCE BBVA USA

Lupin Announces FDA Filing Acceptance of Supplemental New Drug Application for Solosec® (secnidazole) for the Treatment of Trichomoniasis

PR Newswire

MUMBAI, India and BALTIMORE, Nov. 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc., the U.S. based wholly-owned subsidiary of Lupin Limited (Lupin), announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted their supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for Solosec® (secnidazole) for the treatment of trichomoniasis in adults and adolescents. The FDA has assigned a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) target date of June 30, 2021. Trichomoniasis vaginalis is the most common non-viral, curable sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S., affecting an estimated 3 to 5 million people.1 Solosec® 2 g oral granules is currently FDA-approved to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV) in adult women.

lupin_pharmaceuticals_Logo

“The FDA acceptance of our application for Solosec® to treat trichomoniasis is an important milestone for our company and for patients who are in need of new options for the treatment of trichomoniasis,” said Jon Stelzmiller,President – Specialty, Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. “We look forward to working with the FDA during their review of our file for this new indication.” 

If approved for trichomoniasis, Solosec® could be the only single-dose oral prescription treatment for both BV and trichomoniasis.

The Solosec® sNDA is based, in part, on trial results that showed a clinically and statistically significant response rate, or microbiological cure, in patients treated with Solosec® as compared to placebo (p<0.001). In the Per-Protocol population, the cure rate was 94.9% (56/59) for Solosec® versus 1.7% (1/60) for placebo (p<0.001). Solosec® was generally well-tolerated. The most commonly reported adverse events were vulvovaginal candidiasis (2.7%) and nausea (2.7%). No serious adverse events were observed in the trial. The data were presented at the 2020 Infectious Diseases Society for Obstetrics & Gynecology (IDSOG) Virtual Annual Meeting.  

About Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S., and is caused by a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas Vaginalis (T. vaginalis).2 An estimated 3 to 5 million people have the infection,with African American women having a nearly ten times higher risk of being affected compared with non-Hispanic white women.3 Trichomoniasis is four-to-five times more prevalent in women compared to men.3 Signs and symptoms in women can include itching, burning, redness or soreness of the genitals, discomfort with urination and vaginal discharge.2 However, most infected persons (70%-85%) have minimal or no symptoms, and untreated infections might last for months to a year.2,4,8 Trichomoniasis is associated with a two- to three-fold increased risk of HIV infection,5,6 as well as adverse reproductive health outcomes, including infertility and preterm birth.7 Up to 53% of women with HIV infection also have T. vaginalis, which is associated with a significantly increased risk of contracting pelvic inflammatory disease.8 Routine screening of asymptomatic women with HIV infection for T. vaginalis is recommended because of the adverse events associated with asymptomatic trichomoniasis and HIV infection.8 Patients receiving care in high-prevalence settings (e.g., sexually transmitted disease clinics) and asymptomatic patients at high risk for infection (e.g., persons with multiple sex partners, history of sexually transmitted diseases/infections) may also be considered for screening.8

About Solosec®

Solosec® (secnidazole) 2g oral granules is the first and only single-dose oral prescription treatment option to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection, in adult women.9 Solosec® is easy to take and one oral dose contains a full course of treatment.9,10 Women who are prescribed Solosec® may sprinkle the entire packet of granules onto applesauce, yogurt, or pudding and eat the entire mixture, without chewing the granules, within 30 minutes. One dose delivers a complete treatment and Solosec® can be taken at any time of the day, without regard to the timing of meals.There is no need to avoid any foods or drinks, including alcohol, with Solosec®. Laboratory studies show Solosec® does not inhibit the enzyme that processes alcohol in the body.9 Because Solosec® is taken in one oral dose, it may be preferred by women who wish to avoid a multi-day treatment regimen.11

INDICATION

Solosec® (secnidazole) 2 g oral granules is a 5-nitroimidazole antimicrobial agent indicated for the treatment of BV in adult women.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Solosec® is a single-dose therapy for oral use. The entire contents of Solosec® packet should be sprinkled onto applesauce, yogurt or pudding and consumed once within 30 minutes without chewing or crunching the granules. Solosec® is not intended to be dissolved in any liquid.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

  • Solosec® is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to secnidazole, other ingredients of the formulation or other nitroimidazole derivatives.
  • Vulvo-vaginal candidiasis may develop with Solosec® and require treatment with an antifungal agent.
  • Potential risk of carcinogenicity is unknown and has not been studied. Carcinogenicity has been seen in rodents chronically treated with nitroimidazole derivatives, which are structurally related to secnidazole. Chronic use should be avoided.
  • Breastfeeding is not recommended. Patients should discontinue breastfeeding for 96 hours after administration of Solosec®.
  • Most common adverse reactions observed in clinical trials (incidence ≥ 2%) were vulvovaginal candidiasis, headache, nausea, dysgeusia, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and vulvovaginal pruritus.

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-844-SOLOSEC (1-844-765-6732) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or
www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information.

Or

Please click here for full Prescribing Information.

Solosec® is a registered trademark owned by Lupin Inc.

About Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is the U.S. based wholly-owned subsidiary of Lupin Limited and is the 3rd largest pharmaceutical company in the U.S. based on total prescriptions. Together, all Lupin-owned entities combine to make up the 8th largest generic pharmaceutical company in the world by revenue size. Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is dedicated to delivering high-quality medications across many treatment areas. Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.’s branded pharmaceuticals division, is the provider of products designed to help prevent and manage women’s health conditions with serious health consequences.

Please visit www.lupin.com/US/ for more information.

© 2020 Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All rights reserved.

Safe Harbor Statement under the U. S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:

This release contains forward-looking statements that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Many of these risks, uncertainties and other factors include failure of clinical trials, delays in development, registration and product approvals, changes in the competitive environment, increased government control over pricing, fluctuations in the capital and foreign exchange markets and the ability to maintain patent and other intellectual property protection. The information presented in this release represents management’s expectations and intentions as of this date. Lupin expressly disavows any obligation to update the information presented in this release.

For further information or queries please contact –


Caren Begun


Green Room Communications
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +1 201 396 8551

References:

1 American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Vaginitis in Nonpregnant Patients. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 215. Obstet Gynecol 2020;135(1):e1-17.

2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Trichomoniasis – CDC Fact Sheet. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/stdfact-trichomoniasis.htm. Accessed November 12, 2020.

3 Flagg EW, Meites E, Phillips C, Papp J, Torrone EA. Prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis Among Civilian, Noninstitutionalized Male and Female Population Aged 14 to 59 Years: United States, 2013 to 2016. Sex Transm Dis. 2019;46(10):e93–e96. doi:10.1097/OLQ.0000000000001013.

4 Daugherty M. Prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis Infection Among US Males, 2013-2016. Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2019 Feb.; 68(3): 460–46.

5 McClelland, RS. Infection with Trichomonas vaginalis increases the risk of HIV-1 acquisition. Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2007 Mar 1;195(5):698-702.

6 Van Der Pol, B. Trichomonas vaginalis infection and human immunodeficiency virus acquisition in African women. Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2008 Feb;197(4):548-54.

7 Sobel JD, Mitchell C. Trichomoniasis. UpToDate. Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/trichomoniasis. Accessed September 10, 2020.

8 Centers for Disease Control and Infection. 2015 Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines. Trichomoniasis. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/tg2015/trichomoniasis.htm. Accessed November 12, 2020.

9 SOLOSEC [prescribing information]. Baltimore, MD: Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc; 2017.

10 Data on File, Physician Research. Advantage Healthcare, Inc. Prepared December 23, 2014

11 Broumas AG, Basara LA. Potential patient preference for 3-day treatment of bacterial vaginosis: responses to new suppository form of clindamycin. Adv Ther. 2000;17(3):159-166.

 

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SOURCE Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

PNC Announces Agreement To Buy BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc.

Acquisition significantly accelerates PNC’s national expansion strategy; creates nation’s 5th largest bank by asset size

PR Newswire

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 16, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC) and the Spanish financial group, Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, S.A. (NYSE and MAD: BBVA) today announced that they have signed a definitive agreement for PNC to acquire BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc., including its U.S. banking subsidiary, BBVA USA, for a purchase price of $11.6 billion to be funded with cash on hand in a fixed price structure.

BBVA USA Bancshares, with $104 billion in assets and headquartered in Houston, Texas, provides commercial and retail banking services through its banking subsidiary BBVA USA and operates 637 branches in Texas, Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Colorado and New Mexico. When combined with PNC’s existing footprint, the company will have a coast-to-coast franchise with a presence in 29 of the 30 largest markets in the U.S.

“Our acquisition of BBVA USA will accelerate our growth trajectory and drive long-term shareholder value through a strategic deployment of the proceeds from the sale of our BlackRock investment,” said William S. Demchak, PNC’s chairman, president and chief executive officer. “This transaction is an opportunity to navigate our future from a position of strength, accelerating PNC’s national expansion strategy while drawing on our experience as a disciplined acquirer. We are excited to bring our industry-leading technology and innovative products and services to new markets and clients, leveraging our mutual commitment to building diverse and high performing teams and supporting the communities we serve.”

“This is a very positive transaction for all sides. PNC has recognized the great value of our unique client franchise and of our great team in the U.S., who will be part of a leading financial services group in the country,” said BBVA Group Executive Chairman Carlos Torres Vila. “The deal enhances our already strong financial position. We will have ample flexibility to profitably deploy capital in our markets strengthening our long-term growth profile and supporting economies in the recovery phase, and to increase distributions to shareholders.”  

PNC expects the transaction to be approximately 21% accretive to earnings in 2022 and to substantially replace the net income benefit from PNC’s passive equity investment in BlackRock that was divested in May 2020. The transaction has an estimated internal rate of return to PNC in excess of 19%. The purchase price is estimated at 134% of BBVA USA’s tangible book value, based on its balance sheet as of Sept. 30, 2020, and reflects a deposit premium of 3.7%.

The acquisition adds approximately $86 billion of deposits and $66 billion of loans based on BBVA USA’sSept. 30, 2020 balance sheet. Post-closing, the estimated allowance for credit losses to total loans for the combined entity is 2.85%, including reserves for the acquired loans from BBVA USA of 3.85%.

PNC expects to incur merger and integration costs of $980 million, inclusive of approximately $250 million in write-offs of capitalized items, and achieve cost savings in excess of $900 million, or 35% of BBVA USA’s 2022 estimated annual noninterest expense through operational and administrative efficiency improvements.

The transaction, which has been approved by both companies’ boards of directors, is expected to close in mid-2021, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Upon closing, PNC intends to merge BBVA USA Bancshares into PNC with PNC continuing as the surviving entity. Post-closing, PNC intends to merge BBVA USA into PNC Bank, N.A. and convert BBVA USA customers to the PNC platform with BBVA USA branches assuming the PNC Bank name. PNC is not acquiring BBVA Securities, Inc., Propel Venture Partners Fund I, L.P. and BBVA Processing Services, Inc.

PNC has a long history of supporting the communities it serves. The company has earned an “Outstanding” rating under the Community Reinvestment Act since those examinations began more than 40 years ago. Furthermore, PNC has long supported full inclusivity of all people and groups, and remains committed to strengthening and enriching the lives of the communities where it operates. This includes PNC’s 2020 pledge to provide $30 million in charitable support for COVID-19 relief efforts, and a $1 billion commitment announced earlier this year to support economic empowerment and combat systemic racism of Black Americans and low to moderate income communities. PNC will include all new markets in these initiatives, while maintaining its commitment to those it currently serves. 

Bank of America, Citi, Evercore and PNC Financial Institutions Advisory acted as financial advisers to PNC and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz was legal counsel. J.P. Morgan Securities plc represented BBVA as financial adviser and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP was legal counsel.

CONFERENCE CALL AND SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
PNC Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer William S. Demchak and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Robert Q. Reilly will hold a conference call for investors today at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time regarding the announcement of the definitive agreement. Dial-in numbers for the conference call are (877) 402-9115 and (303) 223-4398 (international) and Internet access to the live audio listen-only webcast of the call is available at www.pnc.com/investorevents. PNC’s press release and presentation slides to accompany the conference call remarks will be available at www.pnc.com/investorevents prior to the beginning of the call. A telephone replay of the call will be available for one week at (800) 633-8284 and (402) 977-9140 (international), conference ID 21972430 and a replay of the audio webcast will be available on PNC’s website for 30 days.

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding our outlook or expectations with respect to the planned acquisition of BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc., the combination of BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc. into PNC and BBVA USA into PNC Bank, and the impact of the transaction on PNC’s future performance.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Future events or circumstances may change our outlook and may also affect the nature of the assumptions, risk and uncertainty to which our forward-looking statements are subject. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release, and we assume no duty, and do not undertake, to update them. Actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those that we anticipated in these forward-looking statements. As a result, we caution against placing undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements in this press release are subject to the following risks and uncertainties related both to the acquisition transaction itself and to the integration of the acquired business into PNC after closing:

  • The business of BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc., including its U.S. banking subsidiary, BBVA USA, going forward may not perform as we currently project or in a manner consistent with historical performance. As a result, the anticipated benefits, including estimated cost savings, of the transaction may be significantly harder or take longer to achieve than expected or may not be achieved in their entirety as a result of unexpected factors or events, including those that are outside of our control.
  • The combination of BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc., including its U.S. banking subsidiary, BBVA USA, with that of PNC and PNC Bank may be more difficult to achieve than anticipated or have unanticipated adverse results relating to BBVA USA Bancshares, Inc., including its U.S. banking subsidiary, BBVA USA, or our existing businesses.
  • Completion of the transaction is dependent on the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, which cannot be assured. The timing of completion of the transaction is dependent on various factors that cannot be predicted with precision at this point.

These forward-looking statements are also subject to the principal risks and uncertainties applicable to our businesses generally that are disclosed in PNC’s 2019 Form 10-K and 2020 Form 10-Qs and in PNC’s subsequent SEC filings. Our SEC filings are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on our corporate website at www.pnc.com/secfilings. We have included these web addresses as inactive textual references only. Information on these websites is not part of this document.

CONTACTS:                                                 

MEDIA:   
Marcey Zwiebel 
(412) 762-4550
[email protected] 

INVESTORS:

Bryan Gill  
(412) 768-4143
[email protected]

 

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SOURCE The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.