Archive for January, 2017

$EVLV Agrees to Complete #BlockRepurchase from #NBCUniversal

MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 31, 2017 — Evine Live Inc. (“Evine”) (NASDAQ:EVLV), a multiplatform video commerce company (evine.com), today announced that on Monday, January 30, 2017, it agreed to purchase a block of 4,400,000 shares of its common stock, representing approximately 6.9% of shares outstanding, for approximately $4.9 million or $1.12 per share in a private transaction with NBCUniversal Media, LLC, a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation (“Comcast”)(NASDAQ:CMCSA).  The Company will use cash on hand to buy back the shares and the transaction is expected to settle within two business days.

Executive Commentary

Bob Rosenblatt, Chief Executive Officer at Evine, stated, “Comcast and NBCUniversal have and continue to be great business partners, as our network is distributed on Comcast’s cable television systems.  We were happy to work with them to efficiently reduce this non-core investment that Comcast inherited in their acquisition of NBCUniversal in 2011.   We look forward to continuing to partner with Comcast to build a strong future for Evine.”

Other Information

Craig-Hallum Capital Group LLC served as financial advisor to Evine.

No further share repurchases by Evine are contemplated at this time.  The Company does not currently have a share buyback plan in place.

The Company filed a Form 8-K with the SEC today with further details about this transaction.

About Evine Live Inc.
Evine Live Inc. (NASDAQ:EVLV) operates Evine, a digital commerce company that offers a compelling mix of proprietary and name brands directly to consumers in an engaging and informative shopping experience via television, online and on mobile. Evine reaches approximately 87 million cable and satellite television homes 24 hours a day with entertaining content in a comprehensive digital shopping experience.

Please visit www.evine.com/ir for more investor information.

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

This document contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may be identified by words such as anticipate, believe, estimate, expect, intend, predict, hope, should, plan, will or similar expressions. Any statements contained herein that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and accordingly are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from the expectations contained herein due to various important factors, including (but not limited to): consumer preferences, spending and debt levels; the general economic and credit environment; interest rates; seasonal variations in consumer purchasing activities; the ability to achieve the most effective product category mixes to maximize sales and margin objectives; competitive pressures on sales; pricing and gross sales margins; the level of cable and satellite distribution for our programming and the associated fees or estimated cost savings from contract renegotiations; our ability to establish and maintain acceptable commercial terms with third-party vendors and other third parties with whom we have contractual relationships, and to successfully manage key vendor relationships and develop key partnerships and proprietary and exclusive brands; our ability to manage our operating expenses successfully and our working capital levels; our ability to remain compliant with our credit facilities covenants; customer acceptance of our branding strategy and our repositioning as a digital commerce company; the market demand for television station sales; changes to our management and information systems infrastructure; challenges to our data and information security; changes in governmental or regulatory requirements; including without limitation, regulations of the Federal Communications Commission, and adverse outcomes from regulatory proceedings; litigation or governmental proceedings affecting our operations; significant public events that are difficult to predict, or other significant television-covering events causing an interruption of television coverage or that directly compete with the viewership of our programming; our ability to obtain and retain key executives and employees; our ability to attract new customers and retain existing customers; changes in shipping costs; our ability to offer new or innovative products and customer acceptance of the same; changes in customers viewing habits of television programming; and the risks identified under “Risk Factors” in our recently filed Form 10-K and any additional risk factors identified in our periodic reports since the date of such Form 10-K. More detailed information about those factors is set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and current reports on Form 8-K. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this announcement. We are under no obligation (and expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter our forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contacts:

Media:
Dawn Zaremba
Evine Live Inc.
press@evine.com
(952) 943-6043

Investors:
Michael Porter
Evine Live Inc.
mporter@evine.com
(952) 943-6517
Tuesday, January 31st, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $EVLV Agrees to Complete #BlockRepurchase from #NBCUniversal

$AKTX to Attend Upcoming Investor Conferences in February

NEW YORK and LONDON, Jan. 31, 2017  — Akari Therapeutics (NASDAQ:AKTX), an emerging growth, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, announced today that senior management will attend and host meetings at two upcoming conferences.

  • Canaccord Genuity 2017 Rare Disease, Biopharma One-on-One Day on Tuesday, February 7, 2017 in New York, NY
  • Leerink Partners 6th Annual Global Healthcare Conference on February 16, 2017 in New York, NY

About Akari Therapeutics Plc

Akari is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of life-transforming treatments for a range of rare and orphan autoimmune and inflammatory diseases caused by dysregulation of complement C5 and Leukotriene B4 (LTB4), including paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (“PNH”), atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (“aHUS”), and Guillain Barré syndrome (“GBS”). Akari’s lead product candidate, Coversin™ complement inhibitor, a second-generation complement inhibitor, acts on complement component-C5, preventing the release of C5a and the formation of C5b–9 (also known as the membrane attack complex or MAC), and independently also inhibits LTB4 activity. C5 inhibition is growing in importance in a range of rare autoimmune diseases related to dysregulation of the complement component of the immune system, including PNH, aHUS, and GBS. Exploiting the power of nature, Akari is also developing other tick derived proteins and expects to bring additional compounds to clinical trials over the next several years. The pipeline is focused on developing bioengineered versions of native tick salivary proteins that act as anti-inflammatory compounds allowing the tick to remain on its host. These compounds include PGP sparing LTB4 inhibitors, classical and alternative complement inhibitors, anti-histamines, and serotonin inhibitors as examples. Akari is also developing engineered forms that allow for potential oral absorption, as, for example, a potential orally absorbed C5 inhibitor, and tissue specific proteins, as, for example, Coversin™ that acts specifically at the neuromuscular junction for diseases like myasthenia gravis.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views about our plans, intentions, expectations, strategies and prospects, which are based on the information currently available to us and on assumptions we have made. Although we believe that our plans, intentions, expectations, strategies and prospects as reflected in or suggested by those forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that the plans, intentions, expectations or strategies will be attained or achieved. Furthermore, actual results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements and will be affected by a variety of risks and factors that are beyond our control. Such risks and uncertainties for our company include, but are not limited to: an inability or delay in obtaining required regulatory approvals for Coversin and any other product candidates, which may result in unexpected cost expenditures; risks inherent in drug development in general; uncertainties in obtaining successful clinical results for Coversin and any other product candidates and unexpected costs that may result therefrom; failure to realize any value of Coversin and any other product candidates developed and being developed in light of inherent risks and difficulties involved in successfully bringing product candidates to market; inability to develop new product candidates and support existing product candidates; the approval by the FDA and EMA and any other similar foreign regulatory authorities of other competing or superior products brought to market; risks resulting from unforeseen side effects; risk that the market for Coversin may not be as large as expected; inability to obtain, maintain and enforce patents and other intellectual property rights or the unexpected costs associated with such enforcement or litigation; inability to obtain and maintain commercial manufacturing arrangements with third party manufacturers or establish commercial scale manufacturing capabilities; the inability to timely source adequate supply of our active pharmaceutical ingredients from third party manufacturers on whom the company depends; our inability to obtain additional capital on acceptable terms, or at all; unexpected cost increases and pricing pressures; uncertainties of cash flows and inability to meet working capital needs; and risks and other risk factors detailed in our public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 23, 2016. Except as otherwise noted, these forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any of these statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after this press release. We caution investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

 

Contact:

Investor Contact:
The Trout Group
Lee Stern                             
lstern@troutgroup.com                
646–378–2922

Media Contact:
Susan Forman / Laura Radocaj
Dian Griesel Int'l.
(212) 825-3210
Tuesday, January 31st, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $AKTX to Attend Upcoming Investor Conferences in February

$MNTA District #Court #Decision Invalidates $TEVA Patents in #COPAXONE

Four of Teva’s Orange-Book listed patents ruled invalid due to obviousness

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Jan. 31, 2017  — Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:MNTA) today announced that the United States District Court for the District of Delaware has found each of Teva Pharmaceutical’s U.S. Patent Nos. 8,232,250; 8,399,413; 8,969,302; and 9,155,776  invalid as obvious over the prior art.

“We are very pleased with the District Court’s decision to invalidate the four method of use patents litigated by Teva to block Sandoz’s potential launch of our Glatopa® 40 mg product,” said Craig Wheeler, President and Chief Executive Officer of Momenta. “Today’s favorable ruling further bolsters our confidence in the potential for us to offer multiple sclerosis patients a more affordable generic version of COPAXONE 40 mg following regulatory approval.”

In 2016, the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) declared U.S. Patent Nos. 8,232,250, 8,399,413 and 8,969,302 invalid due to obviousness through an Inter Partes Review (IPR) proceeding. Today’s decision confirms that of the PTAB and finds U.S. 9,155,776 invalid on similar grounds. Both the PTAB’s and today’s District Court decision are appealable to the Federal Circuit. In November 2016, Mylan filed a petition asking the PTAB to institute an IPR proceeding against U.S. 9,155,776 patent. A decision on whether that challenge is instituted is due from the PTAB in April 2017.

About Momenta
Momenta Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company specializing in the detailed structural and functional analysis of complex drugs and is headquartered in Cambridge, MA.  Momenta is applying its technology to the development of generic versions of complex drugs, biosimilar and potentially interchangeable biologics, and to the discovery and development of novel therapeutics for autoimmune indications.

To receive additional information about Momenta, please visit the website at www.momentapharma.com, which does not form a part of this press release. The company’s logo, trademarks, and service marks are the property of Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All other trade names, trademarks, or service marks are property of their respective owners.

Forward Looking Statements
Statements in this press release regarding management’s future expectations, beliefs, intentions, goals, strategies, plans or prospects, including statements relating to its beliefs and intentions related to the approval and launch of our Glatopa product and the invalidity of Teva’s patents, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “could increase the likelihood,” “hope,” “target,” “project,” “goals,” “potential,” “predict,” “might,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “is planned,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “will enable,” “would be expected,” “look forward,” “may provide,” “would” or similar terms, variations of such terms or the negative of those terms. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors referred to in the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the month ended September 30, 2016 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the section “Risk Factors,” as well as other documents that may be filed by Momenta from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As a result of such risks, uncertainties and factors, the Company’s actual results may differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements discussed in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. Momenta is providing the information in this press release as of this date and assumes no obligations to update the information included in this press release or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

COPAXONE is a registered trademark of Teva Pharmaceuticals. Glatopa is a registered trademark of Novartis AG.

 

Investor Relations:
Sarah Carmody
Momenta Pharmaceuticals
1-617-395-5189
IR@momentapharma.com

Media Relations:
Karen Sharma
MacDougall Biomedical Communications
1-781-235-3060          
Momenta@macbiocom.com
Tuesday, January 31st, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $MNTA District #Court #Decision Invalidates $TEVA Patents in #COPAXONE

$DRYS Announces Successful Completion of the $200.0 Million #CommonStock Offering

ATHENS, GREECE–(Jan 31, 2017) – DryShips Inc. (NASDAQ: DRYS) (the “Company”), a diversified owner of ocean going cargo vessels, announced today that it has successfully completed the previously announced $200.0 million common stock offering, in which the Company raised net proceeds of $198.0 million, pursuant to the Common Stock Purchase Agreement entered into by the Company on December 23, 2016.

Following the completion of the offering, the Company has approximately 36,253,870 common shares outstanding.

Mr. George Economou, Chairman and CEO, commented:

“We are very excited to have successfully raised $198 million of equity and with total available liquidity in excess of $300 million, we have strengthened our position to continue the process of re-building the Company’s fleet and earnings capacity and pursuing investments in various shipping segments.”

About DryShips Inc.

The Company is a diversified owner of ocean going cargo vessels that operate worldwide. The Company owns a fleet of 13 Panamax drybulk carriers with a combined deadweight tonnage of approximately 1.0 million tons, 1 Very Large Gas Carrier newbuilding and 6 offshore supply vessels, comprising 2 platform supply and 4 oil spill recovery vessels.

The Company’s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market where it trades under the symbol “DRYS.”

Forward-Looking Statements

Matters discussed in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides safe harbor protections for forward-looking statements in order to encourage companies to provide prospective information about their business. The Company desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with such safe harbor legislation.

Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance and may include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts.

The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in the Company’s records and other data available from third parties. Although the Company believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond the Company’s control, the Company cannot assure you that it will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections.

Important factors that, in the Company’s view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include the factors related to the strength of world economies and currencies, general market conditions, including changes in charter rates and vessel values, failure of a seller or shipyard to deliver one or more vessels, failure of a buyer to accept delivery of a vessel, our inability to procure acquisition financing, default by one or more charterers of our ships, changes in demand for drybulk or LPG commodities, changes in demand that may affect attitudes of time charterers, scheduled and unscheduled drydocking, changes in our voyage and operating expenses, including bunker prices, dry-docking and insurance costs, changes in governmental rules and regulations, changes in our relationships with the lenders under our debt agreements, potential liability from pending or future litigation, domestic and international political conditions, potential disruption of shipping routes due to accidents, international hostilities and political events or acts by terrorists.

Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by DryShips Inc. with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 20-F.

Investor Relations / Media:

Nicolas Bornozis
Capital Link, Inc. (New York)
Tel. 212-661-7566
E-mail: dryships@capitallink.com

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$NETE #ESET Chooses Net Element’s #PayOnline for Secure #Payments in #Kazakhstan

Leading international IT security company, provider of anti-virus and firewall products chooses PayOnline for secure payments acceptance

MIAMI, FL–(Jan 31, 2017) – Net Element, Inc. (NASDAQ: NETE) (“Net Element” or the “Company”), a provider of global mobile payment technology solutions and value-added transactional services, today announces that ESET, a leading international IT security company which offers anti-virus and firewall products has chosen PayOnline for secure payment acceptance services.

This contract highlights that PayOnline not only serves local companies, but that it is also being selected as platform of choice by international companies looking for a secure platform to accept payments internationally.

ESET develops anti-malware software solutions that protect and secure computers, mobile devices and smartphones. ESET protects Internet users across 200 countries worldwide, making its anti-virus solution one of the leading solutions on the market.

PayOnline provides secure payment acceptance that protects ESET against fraud and consumer’s data in accordance with the highest international payment security standard — PCI DSS (Level 1). Clients of ESET in Kazakhstan can now securely pay online at shop.eset.kz using multiple payment methods, including MIR, Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard and Maestro; payments are facilitated in Tenge, Kazakhstan’s national currency.

According to Frost & Sullivan, a leading growth strategies consultancy, “ESET offers high-performance, proactive endpoint security solutions. The company goes above and beyond the competition to add value to its products by educating both Mac and PC users on how to defend themselves against the latest cyber threats… ESET will continue to maintain a strong presence in the endpoint security market and provide high value to its customers.”

“Complex technology can be available, understandable and user-friendly. We believe in it and select partners whose values are similar to ours. Accepting payments at ESET online store utilizing PayOnline fully meets our requirements for quality of service and reliability. We are confident in our payment partner and together we can provide our users with reliable protection,” commented Pavel Brazhnikov, director of Online Projects, ESET.

About ESET
ESET is privately held and has branch offices and distributors in over 200 countries. ESET’s NOD32 anti-virus solution is a record holder for the number of VB100 awards received, according to British publication Virus Bulletin, as well as ADVANCED+ and ADVANCED testing laboratory AV-Comparatives. In Russia, the business version of ESET is FSTEC certified. Further information is available at www.eset.com.

About Net Element
Net Element, Inc. (NASDAQ: NETE) operates a payments-as-a-service transactional and value-added services platform for small to medium enterprise (“SME”) in the US and selected emerging markets. In the US it aims to grow transactional revenue by innovating SME productivity services such as its cloud based, restaurant point-of-sale solution Aptito. Internationally, Net Element’s strategy is to leverage its omni-channel platform to deliver flexible offerings to emerging markets with diverse banking, regulatory and demographic conditions such as UAE, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan where initiatives have been recently launched. Further information is available at www.netelement.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Any statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed forward-looking statements. Words such as “continue,” “will,” “may,” “could,” “should,” “expect,” “expected,” “plans,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, many of which are generally outside the control of Net Element and are difficult to predict. Examples of such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to whether the relationship with ESET will positively impact the Company. Additional examples of such risks and uncertainties are : (i) Net Element’s ability (or inability) to obtain additional financing in sufficient amounts or on acceptable terms when needed; (ii) Net Element’s ability to maintain existing, and secure additional, contracts with users of its payment processing services; (iii) Net Element’s ability to successfully expand in existing markets and enter new markets; (iv) Net Element’s ability to successfully manage and integrate any acquisitions of businesses, solutions or technologies; (v) unanticipated operating costs, transaction costs and actual or contingent liabilities; (vi) the ability to attract and retain qualified employees and key personnel; (vii) adverse effects of increased competition on Net Element’s business; (viii) changes in government licensing and regulation that may adversely affect Net Element’s business; (ix) the risk that changes in consumer behavior could adversely affect Net Element’s business; (x) Net Element’s ability to protect its intellectual property; (xi) local, industry and general business and economic conditions; (xii) adverse effects of potentially deteriorating U.S.-Russia relations, including, without limitation, over a conflict related to Ukraine, including a risk of further U.S. government sanctions or other legal restrictions on U.S. businesses doing business in Russia. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements can be found in the most recent annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed by Net Element with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Net Element anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause its plans, intentions and expectations to change. Net Element assumes no obligation, and it specifically disclaims any intention or obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law.

Net Element
+1 (786) 923-0502
media@netelement.com

Tuesday, January 31st, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $NETE #ESET Chooses Net Element’s #PayOnline for Secure #Payments in #Kazakhstan

$MKGI Appoints #RobertPost to #BoardofDirectors

WESTON, FL–(Jan 31, 2017) – Monaker Group, Inc., (OTCQB: MKGI), a technology-driven travel company focused on the alternative lodging rental (ALR) market, has appointed Robert Post, president and CEO of Cloud5 Communications and executive chairman of The Knowland Group, to the company’s board of directors. The appointment increases the board to six members, with four serving independently.

“Bob’s appointment adds a tremendous wealth of senior-level experience, knowledge and accomplishments to our board,” said the company’s chairman and CEO, Bill Kerby. “We expect Bob to provide valuable guidance and insights as the company enters a pivotal period in its growth and development. This includes our near-term launch of the industry’s first-ever ‘real-time’ alternative lodging reservation system, which also offers mainstream travel products and services all on a single site.”

Post is a highly successful entrepreneur, investor, tech-company executive and veteran re-structuring expert with 20 years of success in the travel and hospitality industry. He is currently CEO of Cloud5, the largest provider of cloud based telecommunications and high speed Internet to major brands in the hospitality industry, including Marriott, IHG, Hilton, La Quinta, Motel 6 and Red Roof Inn.

Post was previously chairman and CEO of TravelCLICK, a leading provider of global, hotel e-commerce solutions that supports more than 15,000 customers across 140 countries, including Blackstone, Hilton, Hyatt, Accor, Marriott and Trump. At TravelCLICK, he grew the company from $35 million and breakeven to more than $200 million with high double-digit profitability. Prior to TravelCLICK, he was the CFO and VP of business development of OpenTable.com, which was ultimately bought by Priceline for $2.6 billion. He also served as an executive and corporate officer at MICROS Systems, a hospitality technology provider, where he helped lead its secondary NASDAQ offering. Post earlier spent several years at Westinghouse Electric in corporate audit, defense and electronic classified programs, negotiating with the U.S. and foreign governments. He continues to operate Pconsulting, providing start-up investment and restructuring services for mid-sized businesses, including OpenTable.com, hotelBANK, and Radiant Systems. He is a graduate of Wharton’s Advanced Management Program, and earned his BS in Business from Duquesne University.

The board appointment is in line with Monaker’s plans for a NASDAQ Stock Market up-listing, which requires a majority of independent directors on the board.

About Monaker

Monaker Group, Inc. is a technology driven travel company with several divisions and brands that build upon more than 65 years of operational experience in leisure travel. Monaker’s flagship NextTrip website is powered by the industry’s first real-time booking engine that offers extensive choices in alternative lodging (vacation home rentals, resort residences and unused timeshares) along with a vast array of airlines, hotels, cruises, rental cars, tours and concierge services, all in a single platform. The site features rich content, imagery and high-quality video that enhances a traveler’s booking experience and assists them in the search, decision and purchasing process. By combining key features and functionality with advanced technology and established travel brands, NextTrip offers comprehensive vacation alternatives at best-pricing. For more information, visit www.monakergroup.com or www.nexttrip.com.

Important Cautions Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties concerning the plans and expectations of Monaker Group, Inc. These statements are only predictions and actual events or results may differ materially from those described in this press release due to a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are out of our control. The potential risks and uncertainties include, among others, or the expectations of future growth may not be realized. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and Monaker Group undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. All forward looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by the “Risk Factors” and other cautionary statements included in Monaker Group’s annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy statements and other public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including, but not limited to, the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended February 29, 2016 which has been filed with the SEC and is available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Company Contact
Richard Marshall
Director of Corporate Development
Monaker Group
Tel: (954) 888-9779
rmarshall@monakergroup.com

Investor Relations Contact
Ronald Both or Grant Stude
CMA
Tel: (949) 432-7557
rb@cma.bz

Tuesday, January 31st, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $MKGI Appoints #RobertPost to #BoardofDirectors

$AIRI Sells Subsidiary to #MeyerTool

HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., Jan. 30, 2017 — Air Industries Group (NYSE MKT:AIRI) (“Air Industries” or the “Company”), announces on January 27, 2017 that we sold our subsidiary AMK Technical Services to Meyer Tool of Cincinnati Ohio for a purchase price of $ 4,500,000, subject to a customary working capital adjustment, plus additional quarterly payments, not to exceed $ 1,500,000, equal to five percent (5%) of Net Revenues of AMK commencing April 1, 2017.  The purchase price is approximately equal to the purchase price of AMK when acquired in October 2014.

Proceeds of the sale will be used to reduce debt and enhance liquidity.

Separately Air Industries announced that revenue for the year ended December 31, 2016 will be approximately $ 66.8 million dollars, a decline of about $ 14 million dollars from the prior year.

Air Industries Group’s President and CEO, Dan Godin commented, “Earlier this year we announced that we were collaborating with Meyer Tool, co-locating AMK at their site in Poland and eventually in Greenville, South Carolina. As that collaboration developed Meyer Tool expressed an interest in acquiring AMK. While the operations and capabilities of AMK are complementary they are not identical to our core business of producing complex machined aerospace hardware. The divestment of AMK allows Air Industries to focus management and other resources on its core business. Meyer Tool will remain a customer of Air Industries and we hope and expect that our relationship with them will continue to grow in the future.

As we have previously announced, sales results for 2016 were disappointing and a significant decline from the prior year. This decline resulted largely from delays in developing new programs and products, plus a few operational execution issues in our largest sector. During the last half of 2016 we have made significant changes in management at several of our subsidiaries to address this and strengthen our New Product Introduction (NPI) process and Operational Excellence.

Against this disappointment I am pleased to announce that our new business development activities for 2016 were very encouraging with bookings of new business increasing by $ 9 million or 13% to approximately $ 80 million dollars. Our firm 18-month backlog also increased by more than $ 12 million or 16% and is now more than $ 90 million.”

ABOUT AIR INDUSTRIES GROUP

Air Industries Group (NYSE MKT:AIRI) is an integrated manufacturer of precision components and provider of supply chain services for the aerospace and defense industry. The Company has over 50 years of experience in the industry and has developed leading positions in several important markets that have significant barriers to entry. With embedded relationships with many leading aerospace and defense prime contractors, the Company designs and manufactures structural parts and assemblies that focus on flight safety, including landing gear, arresting gear, engine mounts and flight controls. Air Industries Group also provides sheet metal fabrication, tube bending, and welding services.

Certain matters discussed in this press release are ‘forward-looking statements’ intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In particular, the Company’s statements regarding trends in the marketplace, the ability to realize projected EBITDA, firm backlog and projected backlog, potential future results and acquisitions, are examples of such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the ability to consummate contemplated acquisitions, the timing of projects due to variability in size, scope and duration, the inherent discrepancy in actual results from estimates, projections and forecasts made by management regulatory delays, changes in government funding and budgets, and other factors, including general economic conditions, not within the Company’s control. The factors discussed herein and expressed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission could cause actual results and developments to be materially different from those expressed in or implied by such statements. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

For additional information, please call 631.881.4913 or by email to: ir@airindustriesgroup.com
Monday, January 30th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $AIRI Sells Subsidiary to #MeyerTool

$GNUS Issues Shareholder Letter

BEVERLY HILLS, CA–(January 30, 2017) – Genius Brands International (NASDAQ: GNUS) recently released a letter to shareholders from Chairman & CEO Andy Heyward. The complete letter follows:

Dear Shareholders,

Some people have asked me in the last week, what’s going on with our stock price. In the past two months, it’s been as high as $8.00 dollars and as low as $3.85. Of course, I don’t like to see this kind of fluctuation, and neither the highs nor the lows accurately reflect the business.

As your CEO, I can’t control stock prices going up and down. I can, however, focus on growing our business and building assets, which ultimately is creating the value in the company. Eventually, we know stock prices align with value.

That is EXACTLY what we have been doing at Genius Brands, and the result is that over the last three years, we have created a powerful catalogue of kid’s content (encompassing seven different brands and an equally powerful distribution outlet, Kid Genius Cartoon Channel). Both are highly valuable and desirable items, which quite often get sold to bigger companies in the food chain (major studios, networks, phone companies, cable companies, etc.).

Here are some facts to remember:

We have more positive events occurring in Genius Brands today than at any time before. I would add, even more than when I sold my previous company to Disney and to Cookie Jar for many multiples of what we trade at.

  • More brands, both in and coming to the marketplace
  • More licensees
  • More committed retailers
  • More catalogue in use
  • A rapidly growing kids channel currently in 50 million U.S. television households, and we are in negotiations, which will put it at over 75+ million U.S. television households by the end of this quarter. (Note, there are a total of 105 million U.S. television households. At 75 million, Kid Genius Cartoon Channel will be able to reach three out of four kids in the U.S.)

The creation of children’s characters, and licensing consumer products around them, is the same business,

1. that drove the sale of DreamWorks for $3.4 billion dollars to Universal.

2. that drove the sale of Marvel for $4+ billion dollars to Disney.

The creation of our Kid Genius Cartoon Channel distribution system, which can deliver kids content to greater than 60% of U.S. television households,

1. is the same business that drove the sale of FOX Kids to Disney for $5.4 billion.

2. is the same business that drove the sale of the HUB to Hasbro and eventually Discovery.

We have powerful and committed partners that are engaged in our brands and businesses, including:

  • Netflix
  • General Mills
  • YouTube
  • Comcast
  • Sony Music/Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
  • Target
  • Toys”R”Us
  • Amazon
  • Penguin Books

THESE ARE THE CRÈME DE LA CRÈME OF THE CHILDREN’S BUSINESS FOOD CHAIN

These partnerships and others including broadcasters, publishers , toy companies, electronics, and key licensees, provide an ‘architecture and ecosystem’ for bringing our properties to the consumer, and to make money…just as I have done with our key management many times before. These companies are smart, wired, and selective. They don’t enter relationships with unproven parties nor with properties that they don’t believe can become extremely successful, and they usually do.

The relationship with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is PARTICULARLY meaningful. Not only are they a strategic business partner on multiple businesses, but they recently took a 7% investment in the company. They have a firm commitment to grow their own kid’s business through their relationship with Genius Brands.

When I had the good fortune to ring the NASDAQ closing bell last week, Sony had a Senior Vice President there WITH ME on the platform. In 2017 and beyond, they will be releasing more and more of our properties into the marketplace as our global digital content distributor.

I have said it takes three years to create, produce, distribute, and bring our content ultimately to the retail shelf. We now have the first of our properties, SpacePOP, on shelf in a big way. We have the licensees; we have the retail support; and we have the content, which has millions and millions of views and continues to grow every day.

What is required is PATIENCE.

In October, our second property will debut, Llama Llama, for Netflix and stars Jennifer Garner. We are well along in production, and our delivery to Netflix in October will not only trigger the beginning of several million dollars of payments from them, but also an array of advances and guarantees from merchandise, which will then be on retail shelves everywhere.

Warren Buffett, has said over and over again that patience is the most important discipline required of an investor. He even put it inside the curriculum of our Secret Millionaires Club. Few have it, but those who do, win.

We have powerful value drivers occurring in Genius Brands, and I encourage you to watch now as they come to market.

Andy Heyward
Chairman & CEO
Genius Brands International

 

Investor Relations
Porter, LeVay and Rose
Michael Porter
T: 212-564-4700
Email contact

Monday, January 30th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $GNUS Issues Shareholder Letter

$RTTR Rings @NASDAQ #ClosingBell #LactoseIntolerance Awareness Month

LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwired – Jan 30, 2017) – Ritter Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: RTTR) (“Ritter Pharmaceuticals” or the “Company”), a developer of novel therapeutic products that modulate the human gut microbiome to treat gastrointestinal diseases, will be ringing the closing bell for the Nasdaq stock market in New York today, Monday, January 30, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. EST to kick-off Lactose Intolerance Awareness Month.

Ira E. Ritter, Co-founder and Chairman of Ritter Pharmaceuticals’ Board of Directors, commented, “Its important to make people aware that lactose intolerance dramatically affects over 40 million people in the U.S. of which 9 million suffer moderate to severe symptoms. Lactose Intolerance is a condition with few treatment options where over 50% of sufferers report their intolerance moderately or severely impacts their daily activities.1 There is a huge unmet medical need here and we have dedicated our last 13 years to pursuing the development of a better treatment option.”

Ritter Pharmaceuticals’ lead product candidate, RP-G28, has the potential to become the first FDA-approved treatment for lactose intolerance. RP-G28 was recently studied in a 377-subject Phase 2b/3 clinical trial, with data readout expected this quarter.

“The Company has had a busy start to 2017,” said Michael Step, Chief Executive Officer of Ritter Pharmaceuticals “We announced the publication of our Phase 2a study’s microbiome data in the prestigious peer-reviewed journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, established a collaboration with the University of Nebraska to study the role of the microbiome and RP-G28 in metabolic syndrome, and appointed William Merino, Ph.D., a former Senior Vice President of Worldwide Regulatory Affairs at Warner Lambert Pharmaceuticals, to our Board of Directors.”

Chairman, Co-Founder and Chief Strategic Officer Ira E. Ritter ringing the Nasdaq bell can be viewed live today, Monday, January 30, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. EST via a live webcast: https://new.livestream.com/nasdaq/live

About Ritter Pharmaceuticals

Ritter Pharmaceuticals, Inc. develops novel therapeutic products that modulate the gut microbiome to treat gastrointestinal diseases. Its lead product, RP-G28, has the potential to become the first FDA-approved treatment for lactose intolerance, a condition that affects millions worldwide. The company is further exploring functionality and discovering therapeutic potential gut microbiome changes may have on treating/preventing a variety of areas including: gastrointestinal diseases, immune-oncology, metabolic, and liver disease. For additional information, go to www.RitterPharma.com and follow the Company at @RitterPharma.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements related to the release of results from the Company’s Phase 2b/3 clinical trial of RP-G28. Management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made. However, such statements involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the Company’s future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the drug development process generally, including the outcomes of planned clinical trials and the regulatory review process. For a discussion of certain risks and uncertainties affecting Ritter Pharmaceuticals’ forward-looking statements, please review the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2015 and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the periods ended March 31, 2016, June 30, 2016 and September 30, 2016. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and Ritter Pharmaceuticals does not undertake any responsibility to revise or update any forward-looking statements contained herein, except as expressly required by law.

1 Objective Insights, “Market Research Analysis and Forecasts on Lactose Intolerance and RP-G28.” June, 2012.

Contacts
Ellen Mochizuki
310-203-1000
ellen@ritterpharma.com

Monday, January 30th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $RTTR Rings @NASDAQ #ClosingBell #LactoseIntolerance Awareness Month

$DGLY Huge 6,500 Unit Order #DVM250 In-Car #EventRecorderSystems

LENEXA, KS–(Jan 30, 2017) – Digital Ally, Inc. (NASDAQ: DGLY) (“Digital or the “Company”), which develops, manufactures and markets advanced video surveillance products for law enforcement, homeland security and commercial applications, today announced its largest commercial order ever received for the sale and installation of DVM-250 event recorder video systems to American Medical Response (“AMR”) and ongoing FleetVu Manager cloud storage services. AMR’s initial order for deployment during 2017 includes approximately 1,550 three-camera DVM-250 systems, installation and cloud storage services, representing 2017 revenues approximating $2 million. Shipments will begin immediately.

AMR is one of the largest providers of emergency medical transportation and other industry services in the United States. The initial order involves fleet vehicles for emergency medical transportation. AMR plans to deploy DVM-250 event recorders and in its full fleet of 6,500-plus vehicles during 2018 and 2019, which would increase the potential total contract value to over $8.3 million during the three-year deployment period.

“We are pleased to see continued growth in Digital Ally’s commercial fleet solutions at the start of 2017 and are proud to be selected by AMR for this important full-fleet deployment,” said Stan Ross, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Ally, Inc. “We have begun to see the Company’s service revenue strategy come to fruition as we secure commercial contracts for the DVM-250 systems, as well as for our FleetVu Manager cloud services that provide a recurring revenue stream,” explained Ross. “This order demonstrates the importance of our solution to commercial fleets generally and more specifically to emergency medical/ambulance transportation services. Our system provides fleet managers audio/video equipment to easily monitor driver behavior and mitigate liabilities during patient transportation,” Ross continued. “In addition to our standard top of the line DVM-250 event recorder systems, AMR will use sensor monitoring to generate a recording when the vehicle’s back doors open and close. In some instances, AMR also took advantage of various innovative product upgrades, such as a fourth camera angle, audible driver feedback and asset tracking. Our product’s versatility and the ability to offer features such as these are among the reasons more vehicle fleets are choosing Digital Ally as their audio/video provider,” Ross concluded.

FleetVu Manager adds powerful real-time asset tracking, automated alerts and telematics capabilities for our customers. Software options include live asset tracking and mapping, posted speed violations and customizable real-time alerts such as idle time, collisions, geo fences and speeding. FleetVu Cloud enables agency managers to easily monitor their fleet of vehicles and driver performance. Users can store and manage video, update firmware and wireless configurations while using features such as mapping, reporting and creating driver score cards. FleetVu mobile allows drivers to perform pre- and post-inspections of the vehicle. It instantly sends alerts via SMS or email to fleet managers if there is a breakdown, maintenance request or any issue with that vehicle. As a result, the system may be instrumental in reducing accidents, fraud and litigation risks.

About Digital Ally, Inc.

Digital Ally, Inc. develops, manufactures and markets advanced technology products for law enforcement, homeland security and commercial applications. The Company’s primary focus is digital video imaging and storage. The Company is headquartered in Lenexa, Kansas, and its shares are traded on The Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “DGLY.” For additional news and information please visit www.digitalallyinc.com or follow us on Twitter @digitalallyinc and Facebook www.facebook.com/DigitalAllyInc

Follow additional Digital Ally Inc. social media channels here:
LinkedIn Instagram Google+ Pinterest

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the expectations or forecasts of future events, can be affected by inaccurate assumptions, and are subject to various business risks and known and unknown uncertainties, a number of which are beyond the control of management. Therefore, actual results could differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. A wide variety of factors that may cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the following: whether AMR will fully implement its three-year plan to equip its vehicles with the Company’s DVM-250 products and utilize related services; whether a growing number of commercial customers will choose the Company as their provider; competition from larger, more established companies with far greater economic and human resources; the effect of changing economic conditions; and changes in government regulations and similar matters. These cautionary statements should not be construed as exhaustive or as any admission as to the adequacy of the Company’s disclosures. The Company cannot predict or determine after the fact what factors would cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements or other statements. The reader should consider statements that include the words “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “estimates”, “plans”, “projects”, “should”, or other expressions that are predictions of or indicate future events or trends, to be uncertain and forward-looking. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional information respecting factors that could materially affect the Company and its operations are contained in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

For Additional Information, Please Contact:
Stanton E. Ross
CEO
(913) 814-7774
or
Thomas J. Heckman
CFO
(913) 814-7774

Monday, January 30th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $DGLY Huge 6,500 Unit Order #DVM250 In-Car #EventRecorderSystems

$CALA & $INCY Announce #Global #CB1158 #Collaboration Arginase Inhibitor

  • Incyte gains worldwide rights to CB-1158 for hematology and oncology indications
  • Calithera to receive a $45 million up-front payment and an $8 million equity investment
  • Incyte and Calithera to co-fund global development of CB-1158; Calithera eligible to receive share of profits in the U.S., potential milestones and royalties on future sales of CB-1158
  • Calithera conference call scheduled today at 8:30 a.m. ET, 5:30 a.m. PT

Incyte Corporation (NASDAQ:INCY) and Calithera Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:CALA) announce today that the companies have entered into a global collaboration and license agreement for the research, development and commercialization of Calithera’s first-in-class, small molecule arginase inhibitor CB-1158 in hematology and oncology. CB-1158 is currently being studied in a monotherapy dose escalation trial and additional studies are expected to evaluate CB-1158 in combination with immuno-oncology agents, including anti-PD-1 therapy.

This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170130005330/en/

“Arginase-expressing tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells have been shown to play an important role in orchestrating the immune suppressive microenvironment in cancer; but, to date, therapeutic targeting of the arginase enzyme has remained elusive,” said Reid Huber, Ph.D., Incyte’s Chief Scientific Officer. “The addition of this first-in-class, small molecule arginase inhibitor, CB-1158, to our portfolio expands our innovative immuno-oncology pipeline and allows us to continue to advance our mission of discovering and developing immune-active combination therapies to treat patients with cancer.”

“In this strategic partnership with Incyte, CB-1158 is expected to be evaluated in multiple trials of novel therapeutic combinations, accelerating its development across hematological and oncology indications,” said Susan Molineaux, Ph.D., Calithera’s Chief Executive Officer.

Terms of the Collaboration

Under the terms of the collaboration and license agreement, Calithera will receive an up-front payment of $45 million from Incyte. In addition, Incyte will make an equity investment in Calithera of $8 million through the purchase of shares at a price of $4.65 per share.

Incyte will receive worldwide rights to develop and commercialize CB-1158 in hematology and oncology and Calithera will retain certain rights to research, develop and commercialize certain other arginase inhibitors in certain orphan indications.

Incyte and Calithera will jointly conduct and co-fund development of CB-1158, with Incyte leading global development activities. Incyte will fund 70 percent of global development and Calithera will be responsible for the remaining 30 percent. In the event of regulatory approvals and commercialization of CB-1158, Incyte and Calithera will share in any future U.S. profits and losses (receiving 60 percent and 40 percent, respectively) and Calithera will be eligible to receive over $430 million in potential development, regulatory and commercialization milestones from Incyte. Per the terms of the agreement, Calithera will have the right to co-detail CB-1158 in the U.S. and also be eligible to receive from Incyte tiered royalties based on future ex-U.S. sales, with rates ranging from low-to-mid double-digits.

The agreement also provides that Calithera may choose to opt out of its co-funding obligations. In this scenario, Calithera would no longer be eligible to receive future U.S. profits and losses but would be eligible to receive up to $750 million in potential development, regulatory and commercialization milestones from Incyte and, if the product is approved and commercialized, also be eligible to receive reimbursement based on previous development expenditures incurred by Calithera and tiered royalty payments on future global sales of CB-1158, with rates ranging from low-to-mid double-digits.

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2017, subject to customary closing conditions.

Conference Call and Webcast Information

Calithera will host a conference call today to discuss this collaboration at 8:30 a.m. ET, 5:30 a.m. PT. Participants may access the call by dialing (855)783-2599 (domestic) or (631)485-4877 (international) and referencing conference ID 58716954. The conference call will also be available by webcast in the Investor Relations page of Calithera’s website, www.calithera.com. The archived webcast will remain available for replay for 30 days.

About Arginase

Arginase is an enzyme produced by immunosuppressive myeloid cells, including myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and neutrophils, which prevents T-cell and natural killer (NK) cell activation in tumors. Arginase exerts its immunosuppressive effect by depleting the amino acid arginine in the tumor microenvironment which subsequently prevents activation and proliferation of the immune system’s cytotoxic T-cells and NK-cells. Inhibition of arginase activity reverses this immunosuppressive block and restores T-cell function. In preclinical models, arginase inhibition has been shown to enhance anti-tumor immunity and inhibit tumor growth.

About Incyte

Incyte Corporation is a Wilmington, Delaware-based biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of proprietary therapeutics. For additional information on Incyte, please visit the Company’s website at www.incyte.com.

Follow @Incyte on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Incyte.

About Calithera Biosciences

Calithera Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel small molecule drugs directed against tumor metabolism and tumor immunology targets for the treatment of cancer. Calithera’s lead product candidate, CB-839, is a potent, selective, reversible and orally bioavailable inhibitor of glutaminase. CB-839 takes advantage of the pronounced dependency many cancers have on the nutrient glutamine for growth and survival. It is currently being evaluated in Phase 1/2 clinical trials in combination with standard of care agents. CB-1158 is a first-in-class immuno-oncology metabolic checkpoint inhibitor targeting arginase, a critical immunosuppressive enzyme responsible for T-cell suppression by myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Arginase depletes arginine, a nutrient that is critical for the activation, growth and survival of the body’s cancer-fighting immune cells, known as cytotoxic T-cells. CB-1158 is currently in a Phase I clinical trial. Calithera is headquartered in South San Francisco, California. For more information about Calithera, please visit www.calithera.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the historical information set forth herein, the matters set forth in this press release contain predictions, estimates and other forward-looking statements, including without limitation statements regarding: whether CB-1158 will successfully advance through clinical studies or will ever be approved for use in humans anywhere or will be commercialized anywhere successfully or at all; whether CB-1158 will be effective in the treatment of cancer; and whether and when any of the milestone payments or royalties under this collaboration will ever be paid by Incyte. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including unanticipated developments in and risks related to: obtaining approval for this planned collaboration; research and development efforts related to the collaboration programs; the possibility that results of clinical trials may be unsuccessful or insufficient to meet applicable regulatory standards or warrant continued development; other market or economic factors; unanticipated delays; each company’s ability to compete against parties with greater financial or other resources; greater than expected expenses; and such other risks detailed from time to time in each company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 filed by each company. Each party disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

 

Incyte Media
Catalina Loveman, 302-498-6171
cloveman@incyte.com
or
Incyte Investors
Michael Booth, DPhil, 302-498-5914
mbooth@incyte.com
or
Calithera
Jennifer McNealey, 650-870-1071
ir@Calithera.com

Monday, January 30th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $CALA & $INCY Announce #Global #CB1158 #Collaboration Arginase Inhibitor

$CIIX to Present at #NobleCon13 Annual #Investor #Conference

NEW YORK, January 30, 2017  —

ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX) (the “Company”), the premier financial information website for Chinese-speaking investors in both the U.S. and China today announced that its CEO, Warren Wang, will present at the NobleCon13 – Noble Capital Markets’ Thirteenth Annual Investor Conference at the Boca Raton Resort & Club in Boca Raton, Florida, on January 31st at 2:30pm Eastern Standard Time.

A high-definition, video webcast of the company’s presentation and a copy of the presentation materials will be available on the Company’s web site http://www.ChineseInvestors.com, or as part of a complete catalog of presentations available at Noble Financial websites: http://www.noblecapitalmarkets.com, or www.nobleconference.com. You will require a Microsoft SilverLight viewer (a free download from the presentation link) to participate. The webcast and presentation will be archived on the company’s website and on the Noble websites for 90 days following the event.

About ChineseInvestors.com

Founded in 1999, ChineseInvestors.com, Inc. endeavors to be an innovative company providing (a) real-time market commentary, analysis, and educational related services in Chinese language character sets (traditional and simplified); (b) support services to various partners; (c) consultative services to smaller private companies considering becoming a public company; (d) advertising and public relation related support services; and (e) other services we may identify having the potential to create value or partnership opportunity with our existing services.

About Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Noble Capital Markets, established in 1984, is an equity-research driven, full-service, investment & merchant banking boutique focused on the healthcare, media & entertainment, technology and natural resources sectors. The company has offices in Boca Raton, New York and Boston. In addition to NobleCon – the annual multi-sector investor conference and the Media, Finance & Investor Conference, produced in partnership with the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and held each spring in Las Vegas, throughout the year Noble hosts numerous “non-deal” corporate road shows across the United States and Canada. Members: FINRA, SIPC, MSRB.http://www.noblecapitalmarkets.com

Contact:

Alan Klitenic
pr@chinesefn.com

+1(214)636-2548

Monday, January 30th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $CIIX to Present at #NobleCon13 Annual #Investor #Conference

$FBIZ Announces an #Increase in its #Quarterly #Dividend

MADISON, Wis., Jan. 27, 2017  — First Business Financial Services, Inc. (“First Business”) (NASDAQ:FBIZ) announced its board of directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of $0.13 per share which is equivalent to a dividend yield of 2.13% based on Thursday’s market close price of $24.36. The quarterly dividend at this amount represents an 8.3% increase over the quarterly dividend declared in October 2016.  On an annualized basis, the 2017 dividend amount is $0.52 per share, or a payout ratio of 28% based on fourth quarter 2016 earnings. This regular cash dividend is payable on February 24, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 10, 2017.

Corey Chambas, President and Chief Executive Officer commented, “We are pleased to announce an increase in our quarterly dividend to $0.13 reflecting our commitment to increasing shareholder value. We believe our earnings and capital position give us the ability to increase dividends and provide a meaningful return to our shareholders while carrying out our strategic growth initiatives.”

About First Business Financial Services, Inc.
First Business Financial Services is a Wisconsin-based bank holding company, focused on the unique needs of businesses, business executives and high net worth individuals. First Business offers commercial banking, specialty finance and private wealth management solutions, and because of its niche focus, is able to provide its clients with unmatched expertise, accessibility and responsiveness. For additional information, visit www.firstbusiness.com or call 608-238-8008.

This press release includes “forward-looking” statements related to First Business Financial Services, Inc. that can generally be identified as describing the Company’s future plans, objectives or goals. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those currently anticipated. These forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For further information about the factors that could affect the Company’s future results, please see the Company’s 2015 annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Contact:
Edward G. Sloane, Jr.
Chief Financial Officer
First Business Financial Services, Inc.
608-232-5970
esloane@firstbusiness.com
Friday, January 27th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $FBIZ Announces an #Increase in its #Quarterly #Dividend

$ARLP & $AHGP Declare #Q4 Unitholder Distribution

Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. (NASDAQ: ARLP) and Alliance Holdings GP, L.P. (NASDAQ: AHGP) today announced that the Board of Directors of ARLP’s managing general partner and AHGP’s general partner approved a cash distribution to their respective unitholders for the quarter ended December 31, 2016 (the “2016 Quarter”).

ARLP unitholders will receive a cash distribution for the 2016 Quarter of $0.4375 per unit (an annualized rate of $1.75 per unit), payable on February 14, 2017 to all unitholders of record as of the close of trading on February 7, 2017. The announced distribution is equal to the distribution declared for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 (the “Sequential Quarter”) and compares to the quarterly unitholder distribution of $0.675 per unit for the quarter ended December 31, 2015 (the “2015 Quarter”).

AHGP unitholders will receive a cash distribution for the 2016 Quarter of $0.55 per unit (an annualized rate of $2.20 per unit), payable on February 17, 2017 to all unitholders of record as of the close of trading on February 10, 2017. The announced distribution is equal to the distribution declared for the Sequential Quarter and compares to the quarterly unitholder distribution of $0.96 per unit for the 2015 Quarter.

As previously announced, ARLP and AHGP will report financial results for the 2016 Quarter and full year before the market opens on Monday, January 30, 2017 and Alliance management will discuss these results during a conference call beginning at 10:00 a.m. Eastern that same day.

To participate in the conference call, dial (855) 793-3259 and provide conference number 48863667. International callers should dial (631) 485-4928 and provide the same conference number. Investors may also listen to the call via the “investor information” section of ARLP’s website at http://www.arlp.com or AHGP’s website at http://www.ahgp.com.

An audio replay of the conference call will be available for approximately one week. To access the audio replay, dial (855) 859-2056 and provide conference number 48863667. International callers should dial (404) 537-3406 and provide the same conference number.

This announcement is intended to be a qualified notice under Treasury Regulation Section 1.1446-4(b), with 100% of the partnership’s distributions to foreign investors attributable to gross income, gain or loss that is effectively connected with a United States trade or business. Accordingly, ARLP’s distributions to foreign investors are subject to federal income tax withholding at the highest applicable tax rate.

About Alliance Resource Partners, L.P.

ARLP is a diversified producer and marketer of coal to major United States utilities and industrial users. ARLP, the nation’s first publicly traded master limited partnership involved in the production and marketing of coal, is currently the second largest coal producer in the eastern United States with mining operations in the Illinois Basin and Appalachian coal producing regions.

ARLP currently operates eight mining complexes in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland and West Virginia. ARLP also operates a coal loading terminal on the Ohio River at Mount Vernon, Indiana.

News, unit prices and additional information about ARLP, including filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, are available at http://www.arlp.com. For more information, contact the investor relations department of Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. at (918) 295-7674 or via e-mail at investorrelations@arlp.com.

About Alliance Holdings GP, L.P.

AHGP is a limited partnership formed to own and control Alliance Resource Management GP, LLC, the managing general partner of Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. (NASDAQ: ARLP), through which it holds a 1.98% general partner interest and the incentive distribution rights in ARLP. In addition, AHGP owns 31,088,338 common units of ARLP.

News, unit prices and additional information about AHGP including filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, are available at http://www.ahgp.com. For more information, contact the investor relations department of Alliance Holdings GP, L.P. at (918) 295-1415 or via e-mail at investorrelations@ahgp.com.

 

Alliance Holdings GP, L.P.
Alliance Resource Partners, L.P.
Brian L. Cantrell, 918-295-7673

Friday, January 27th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $ARLP & $AHGP Declare #Q4 Unitholder Distribution

$AUPH Worldwide #ClinicalTrials as its #CRO for #Phase3 #Lupus Nephritis Trial

– Single Phase 3 Trial on track to commence in Q2 2017

Aurinia Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: AUPH / TSX: AUP) (“Aurinia” or the “Company”), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the global immunology market, today announced that it has selected Worldwide Clinical Trials (“Worldwide”) as its Clinical Research Organization (CRO) for the AURORA Phase 3 study of volcosporin for the treatment of active lupus nephritis (LN).

“Selecting a CRO for AURORA is a key milestone for Aurinia following our successful end-of-Phase 2 meeting with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Rheumatology Products. We are thrilled to partner with Worldwide to support the AURORA Phase 3 clinical trial,” said Charles Rowland, Chief Executive Officer of Aurinia. “We are rapidly moving forward with our plans to bring this important therapy to market for patients living with this devastating disease, and Worldwide’s deep expertise and capabilities in managing pivotal trials will be a tremendous asset to us. We are on track to commence the AURORA trial in the second quarter of 2017, and we expect the results from this study will support a New Drug Application (NDA) submission to the FDA.”

With support from Worldwide, Aurinia will proceed with conducting a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind global 52-week trial in approximately 320 patients. The primary endpoint as in the Phase 2b AURA trial is renal response (complete remission), at 24 weeks. In addition to the assessment of renal response, a key marker of clinical benefit in this population is the duration of proteinuria improvement. Therefore, secondary endpoints will include the duration of renal response at 52 weeks (48 weeks in AURA), an efficacy measure which delineates durability of renal response (remission), an important parameter in evaluating long-term outcomes for the treatment of LN.

“Our entire Worldwide team is delighted to have been selected as Aurinia’s CRO partner to advance voclosporin, which has the potential to become the first FDA-approved treatment for LN,” said Peter Benton, President and Chief Operating Officer at Worldwide Clinical Trials. “We’re truly honored that an innovator like Aurinia recognizes what Worldwide brings to the table: medical and scientific expertise, proactive insight, dogged determination, rigorous processes and a commitment to getting it right. We’re looking forward to working closely with Aurinia’s clinical development team on this new therapy, which could significantly improve the lives and long-term outcomes of patients suffering from LN.”

About Voclosporin

Voclosporin, an investigational drug, is a novel and potentially best-in-class calcineurin inhibitor (“CNI”) with clinical data in over 2,000 patients across indications. Voclosporin is an immunosuppressant, with a synergistic and dual mechanism of action that has the potential to improve near- and long-term outcomes in LN when added to standard of care (MMF). By inhibiting calcineurin, voclosporin blocks IL-2 expression and T-cell mediated immune responses. It is made by a modification of a single amino acid of the cyclosporine molecule which has shown a more predictable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic relationship, an increase in potency, an altered metabolic profile, and potential for flat dosing. The Company anticipates that upon regulatory approval, patent protection for voclosporin will be extended in the United States and certain other major markets, including Europe and Japan, until at least October 2027 under the Hatch-Waxman Act and comparable laws in other countries.

About Lupus Nephritis (LN)

Lupus Nephritis (LN) in an inflammation of the kidney caused by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and represents a serious progression of SLE. SLE is a chronic, complex and often disabling disorder and affects more than 500,000 people in the United States (mostly women). The disease is highly heterogeneous, affecting a wide range of organs & tissue systems. It is estimated that as many as 60% of all SLE patients have clinical LN requiring treatment. Unlike SLE, LN has straightforward disease outcomes where an early response correlates with long-term outcomes, measured by proteinuria. In patients with LN, renal damage results in proteinuria and/or hematuria and a decrease in renal function as evidenced by reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and increased serum creatinine levels. LN is debilitating and costly and if poorly controlled, LN can lead to permanent and irreversible tissue damage within the kidney, resulting in end-stage renal disease (ESRD), thus making LN a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.

About AURORA

The AURORA study is a 52-week global double-blind placebo controlled Phase III study that will compare the efficacy of one dose of voclosporin (23.7mg BID) or placebo added to current standard of care of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF, also known as CellCept®) in achieving renal response (formerly referred to as complete remission) in patients with active LN. Both arms will also receive low doses of corticosteroids as part of background therapy after a stringent taper. Aurinia believes this Phase III clinical trial whose design is consistent with the ongoing AURA study, will support a New Drug Application (NDA) submission.

About Aurinia

Aurinia is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing therapies to treat targeted patient populations that are suffering from serious diseases with a high unmet medical need. The company is currently developing voclosporin, an investigational drug, for the treatment of lupus nephritis (LN). The company is headquartered in Victoria, BC and focuses its development efforts globally. www.auriniapharma.com.

About Worldwide Clinical Trials

Worldwide Clinical Trials employs more than 1,400 professionals around the world, with offices in North and South America, Eastern and Western Europe, Russia and Asia. One of the world’s leading, full-service contract research organizations (CROs), we partner with sponsors in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries to deliver fully integrated clinical development and bioanalytical services, extending from first-in-human through phase IV studies. Grounded in medicine and science, we help sponsors move from discovery into clinical development and commercialization across a range of therapeutic areas, including neuroscience, cardiovascular diseases, immune-mediated inflammatory disorders (IMID), and rare diseases. For more information, visit www.Worldwide.com.

 

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements related to Aurinia’s clinical and regulatory strategy, future clinical development plans, Aurinia’s analysis, assessment and conclusions of the results of the AURA-LV clinical study. It is possible that such results or conclusions may change based on further analyses of these data. Words such as “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “believe,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon Aurinia’s current expectations. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Aurinia’s actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, the risk that Aurinia’s analyses, assessment and conclusions of the results of the AURA-LV clinical study set forth in this release may change based on further analyses of such data, and the risk that Aurinia’s clinical studies for voclosporin may not lead to regulatory approval. These and other risk factors are discussed under “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in Aurinia’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2015 filed with Canadian securities authorities and available at www.sedar.com and on Form 40-F with the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov, each as updated by subsequent filings, including filings on Form 6-K. Aurinia expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Aurinia’s expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based.

 

Aurinia Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Investor & Media Contact:
Celia Economides
Head of IR & Communications
ceconomides@auriniapharma.com
or
Worldwide Clinical Trials Media Contact:
LuJean Smith, +1.610.329.2056
Vice President, Global Marketing Communications
lujean.smith@worldwide.com

Friday, January 27th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $AUPH Worldwide #ClinicalTrials as its #CRO for #Phase3 #Lupus Nephritis Trial

$HBMD Prices #Upsized #PublicOffering of #CommonStock

Howard Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq:HBMD) (the “Company”), the parent company of Howard Bank, today announced the pricing of an upsized underwritten public offering of 2,400,000 shares of its common stock at a public offering price of $15.00 per share, raising approximately $36.0 million in gross proceeds. The Company has granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 360,000 shares of its common stock at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount, to cover over-allotments, if any.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including contributing to the capital of Howard Bank to support its lending and investing activities, repayment of debt and to support or fund acquisitions of other institutions or branches as and if opportunities for such transactions become available.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc. is serving as bookrunning manager and Stephens Inc. is serving as lead manager. The closing of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions. The shares are expected to be delivered on February 1, 2017.

A registration statement relating to these securities has been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus and prospectus supplement. Copies of the prospectus and, when available, prospectus supplement for the offering may be obtained by visiting the SEC website at www.sec.gov or by contacting: Raymond James & Associates, Inc., 880 Carillon Parkway, St. Petersburg, Florida 33716, (800)-248-8863 or by email at prospectus@raymondjames.com.

About Howard Bancorp, Inc.

Howard Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company of Howard Bank, is a Maryland-chartered trust company operating as a commercial bank. Headquartered in Ellicott City, Maryland, Howard Bank operates a general commercial banking business through its 13 branches located throughout the Greater Baltimore Metropolitan Area. It had consolidated assets of approximately $1.0 billion at December 31, 2016. Additional information about Howard Bancorp, Inc. and Howard Bank are available on its Web site at www.howardbank.com.

 

Howard Bancorp, Inc.
George C. Coffman, 410-750-0020
Chief Financial Officer

Friday, January 27th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $HBMD Prices #Upsized #PublicOffering of #CommonStock

$PULM $CARA #Biotech #MergersAndAcquisitions Activity to Rise in 2017

NEW YORK, NY / January 27, 2017 / The Biotech Industry witnessed a drop in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity amidst a slump in 2016. The Nasdaq Biotech Index declined roughly 22 percent in 2016. M&A activity within the Biotech Industry totaled 326 deals worth approximately $91 billion in 2016, compared to $118 billion the year prior, according to Bloomberg. Also the number of M&A deals in the sector in 2016 was the lowest total in six years. Research & development productivity of 12 of the biggest biopharma companies, which was measured by annual projected R&D returns, hit a 7 year low in 2016, according to a recent study completed by Deloitte. With many large firms having more cash available, giving them plenty of firepower for larger number of in M & A activities in 2017.

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“With a large gap remaining between large BioPharma’s actual and desired revenues, and historically high amounts of cash on hand, look for an uptick of larger acquisition targets,” says David Risinger, an analyst for Morgan Stanley who covers big pharma. “This is particularly true of the U.S. BioPharma industry, where the amount of cash on hand is greater and intentions more focused.”

Pulmatrix Inc. (NASDAQ: PULM)

Get Your Up-To-Date Pulmatrix Research Report Click Here

Pulmatrix’s shares surged 35.37 percent to close at $2.22 a share Thursday. The stock traded between $1.42 and $2.59 on volume of 20.32 million shares traded. On January 17th, the company announced PUR1900, a drug candidate for the treatment of fungal infections in the lungs of CF patients, received the “Qualified Infectious Disease Product” (QIDP) designation from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

“The new QIDP designation is a significant boost to our efforts to make this drug available as quickly as possible to cystic fibrosis (CF) patients suffering from fungal lung infections,” said Pulmatrix CEO Robert Clarke, PhD. “It will give us the benefit of an expedited regulatory review. Added to our existing FDA Orphan drug designation for PUR1900, it will give us a full 12 years of market exclusivity.”

Cara Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: CARA)

Get Your Up-To-Date Cara Therapeutics Research Report Click Here

Cara Therapeutics’ shares jumped 6.26 percent to close at $13.74 a share Thursday. The stock traded between $12.93 and $13.98 on volume of 2.29 million shares traded. Cara’s most advanced patented compound, CR845, is currently undergoing clinical testing for acute pain and pruritus. This compound possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic activities appropriate for multiple therapeutic applications. On November 29th, the company announced the completion of patient enrollment for the multi-dose phase of its adaptive Phase 2/3 trial of I.V. CR845 in dialysis patients suffering from moderate-to-severe uremic pruritus (UP).

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Friday, January 27th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $PULM $CARA #Biotech #MergersAndAcquisitions Activity to Rise in 2017

$WASH #CommercialFinancing Development of Property in #Dedham, #MA

WESTERLY, R.I., Jan. 26, 2017  — Washington Trust’s Commercial Real Estate Group recently provided commercial financing to Dedham Retail Realty Ventures for the development of a two-parcel property directly across from Legacy Place, a 600,000 square-foot open air shopping, dining and entertainment destination in Dedham, MA.

The new property includes two retail buildings, totaling approximately 11,500 square feet of space. Tenants include Sprint, Select Comfort, Starbucks and Red Wing shoes. Demand for the properties is strong due to its great visibility and location on a highly trafficked retail corridor.

“This property has a superb location that was instrumental in its leasing momentum,” said Julia Anne M. Slom, Senior Vice President & Team Leader of Washington Trust’s Commercial Real Estate Group. “The plaza serves as a great compliment to surrounding retail development.”

Washington Trust’s Commercial Real Estate Group provides commercial real estate mortgages for the construction, refinancing, or purchasing of investment real estate projects. Financing ranges in size from several hundred thousand dollars up to multi-million dollar projects. For more information, contact Bethany Lyons, Vice President, Commercial Real Estate Group, at 401-401-1538 or 1-800-475-2265 ext. 1538.

ABOUT WASHINGTON TRUST®
Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is the oldest community bank in the nation and one of the Northeast’s premier financial services companies. Washington Trust offers a full range of financial services, including commercial banking, mortgage banking, personal banking and wealth management and trust services through its offices located in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Washington Trust Company is a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., (NASDAQ:WASH). Additional information on Washington Trust and its subsidiaries can be found at https://www.washtrust.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Tony Nunes
Public Relations 
401.348.1657
ajnunes@washtrust.com
Thursday, January 26th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $WASH #CommercialFinancing Development of Property in #Dedham, #MA

$GWGH #BrianChen to Lead Development of #Epigenetic #MortalityPrediction Technology

MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 26, 2017  — GWG Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq:GWGH), a financial services company applying epigenetic technology to transform the life insurance industry, announced it has hired Dr. Brian Chen to lead its new initiative to measure and predict human lifespan.

As Vice President of Research and Analytics, Dr. Chen will be responsible for developing and implementing GWG’s new life insurance underwriting process using “DNA Methylation-Based Predictor of Mortality” technology optioned from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The technology developed by Dr. Steve Horvath at UCLA will be used by GWG to more accurately assess the life expectancies of policy owners. GWG is in the process of integrating this technology into its actuarial underwriting method to enhance its current secondary market business, as well as explore even greater opportunities in the life insurance industry.

“Brian will play a key role in bringing to market our proprietary approach that uses epigenetic technology to determine estimates of an individual’s lifespan,” said GWG CEO Jon Sabes. “His experience working with Dr. Steve Horvath and the technology we have optioned from UCLA will accelerate our development of new procedures and products. Our goal is to rewrite the century-old ways of life insurance underwriting and reinvent the industry in doing so. This is an exciting opportunity for us as we push forward into the insurtech space where insurance and technology meet.”

Dr. Chen worked closely with Dr. Horvath at UCLA as an epidemiologist who studied the biological underpinnings of aging and age-related diseases. Dr. Chen was first author of the study on DNA methylation and mortality prediction building on Dr. Horvath’s work that was published in the journal Aging in September 2016.  Most recently, Dr. Chen worked at the National Institute on Aging (NIA) as a postdoctoral researcher. Prior to coming to the NIA, Dr. Chen worked at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s Framingham Heart Study that provided important blood samples for the UCLA team’s work. Dr. Chen received his Ph.D. in epidemiology from UCLA and Master’s in Public Health from the University of California at Berkeley.

About GWG Holdings, Inc.

GWG Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq:GWGH) is a financial services company committed to applying advanced epigenetic mortality prediction technology to the life insurance and related industries. Already a recognized disruptor in the life insurance secondary market, GWG seeks to further transform the industry by continuing to create innovative products and services. As of September 30, 2016, GWG’s growing portfolio consisted of $1.27 billion in face value of policy benefits and paid consumers $357 million for their life insurance.

For more information about GWG Holdings, Inc. email info@gwglife.com or visit www.gwgh.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release regarding our strategy, future operations, future financial position, future revenue, projected costs, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “would,” “target” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements about our estimates regarding future revenue and financial performance. We may not actually achieve the expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements we make. More information about potential factors that could affect our business and financial results is contained in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Additional information will also be set forth in our future quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, annual reports on Form 10-K and other filings that we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not intend, and undertake no duty, to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein.

Media contacts: 
Dan Callahan 
GWG Holdings, Inc. 
(612) 746-1935 
dcallahan@gwglife.com 

Matt Ehlers 
G&S Business Communications 
(919) 870-5718, x3221 
mehlers@gscommunications.com
Thursday, January 26th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $GWGH #BrianChen to Lead Development of #Epigenetic #MortalityPrediction Technology

$MEOH Notice of #Cash #Dividend

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(Jan. 26, 2017) – Methanex Corporation (TSX:MX)(NASDAQ:MEOH) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of US$0.275 per share that will be payable on March 31, 2017 to holders of common shares of record on March 17, 2017.

Methanex is a Vancouver-based, publicly traded company and is the world’s largest producer and supplier of methanol to major international markets. Methanex shares are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada under the trading symbol “MX” and on the NASDAQ Global Market in the United States under the trading symbol “MEOH”. Methanex can be visited online at www.methanex.com.

Sandra Daycock
Director, Investor Relations
Methanex Corporation
604-661-2600 or Toll Free: 1 800 661 8851
www.methanex.com

Thursday, January 26th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $MEOH Notice of #Cash #Dividend

$ORPN to Host Key Opinion Leader Lunch, Focus on #Orphan #NeurologicalDisease

Investor Lunch and Live Webcast at 12 Noon Eastern Time on February 2

TEL AVIV, Israel, Jan. 26, 2017  — Bioblast Pharma Ltd. (Nasdaq:ORPN), a clinical-stage, orphan disease-focused biotechnology company, will host a KOL lunch on the subject of orphan neurological diseases and treatments at 12pm on Thursday, February 2, 2017 in New York City.

Bioblast management will provide an overview of the Company’s ongoing clinical development work with trehalose 90 mg/mL IV solution, a proprietary first-in-class therapeutic. Trehalose is currently in Phase 2 development for the treatment of oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) and spinocerebellar ataxia, type 3 (SCA3).  The keynote presentation will be made by Bernard Brais, MD, a leading neurologist and Professor of Neurology and Human Genetics at McGill University.  He is Co-Director of the Rare Neurological Diseases Group of the Montreal Neurological Institute, one of the leading institutions specializing in the treatment of OPMD. Dr. Brais will discuss OPMD while Warren Wasiewski, MD, Bioblast’s Chief Medical Officer and Head of R&D, will cover the preclinical and clinical results for trehalose in both OPMD and SCA3.

Dr. Brais specializes in the clinical care and genetic basis of muscular dystrophies and other rare neurogenetic disorders. Over the last two decades, he has been recognized as an international leader on OPMD. In 1998, he published a paper on the first PABPN1 mutations responsible for OPMD in Nature Genetics. He also helped to first document the presence of mutated PABPN1 in the intranuclear inclusions underlying the pathology of OPMD, later showing that many RNA binding proteins were also aggregated in the inclusions.

Dr. Brais has followed the largest global cohort of OPMD cases since the early 1990s. Since 1998, he has overseen a cohort of more than 1,400 OPMD cases.

The lunch event is intended for institutional investors and analysts only.  Please RSVP in advance if you plan to attend, as space is limited.  To reserve a spot, please reply to this email or contact LifeSci Advisors, LLC at mac@lifesciadvisors.com.

A live webcast of the event, with slides, will be available at http://lifesci.rampard.com/20170202/reg.jsp and within the Investors section of the Company’s website at www.bioblastpharma.com.

Trehalose proprietary position

Bioblast has received a U.S. patent for administration of trehalose to treat SCA3 (and OPMD) that is expected to expire in 2033. In addition, the Company has secured Orphan Drug Designation for SCA3 and OPMD in the U.S. and in the EU.

Trehalose is a protein stabilizer that also activates autophagy and crosses the blood-brain barrier

Trehalose is a low molecular weight disaccharide (.342 kDa) that protects against pathological processes in cells. It has been shown to penetrate muscle and cross the blood-brain barrier. In animal models of several diseases associated with abnormal cellular-protein aggregation, it has been shown to reduce pathological aggregation of misfolded proteins as well as to activate autophagy pathways through the activation of Transcription Factor EB (TFEB), a key factor in lysosomal and autophagy gene expression. Activation of TFEB is an emerging therapeutic target for a number of diseases with pathologic accumulation of storage material.

About Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy (OPMD)
OPMD is an inherited myopathy characterized by dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing), eyelid drooping (ptosis) and the loss of muscle strength in multiple muscles of the limbs.  Symptoms generally appear in mid-life and get worse over time.  As the dysphagia becomes more severe, patients may become malnourished, may lose significant weight, and may suffer from repeated incidents of aspiration pneumonia. The disease is caused by a genetic mutation responsible for the creation of a mutant protein (PABPN1) with an expanded polyalanine domain that aggregates within patient muscle cells.  There is no approved pharmacologic treatment for OPMD.

About Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 (SCA3; Machado-Joseph Disease)
SCA3, also known as Machado-Joseph disease, is the most common form of hereditary cerebellar ataxias, which are a group of genetic diseases characterized by ataxia, spasticity, difficulty with speech and swallowing, weakness in arms and memory deficits. Symptoms can begin in early adolescence and get worse over time. Eventually SCA3 leads to paralysis, and severe cases can lead to an early death in the fourth decade of life. SCA3 is currently considered incurable, and there is no approved pharmacologic treatment for SCA3.

About Bioblast Pharma Ltd.
Bioblast Pharma is a clinical-stage biotechnology company committed to developing clinically meaningful therapies for patients with rare and ultra-rare genetic diseases.  Bioblast is traded on the NASDAQ under the symbol “ORPN”. For more information, please visit our website: www.BioblastPharma.com, the content of which is not incorporated herein by reference.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss future clinical studies and imply that our product candidate may successfully treat certain medical conditions. In addition, historic results of scientific research and clinical and preclinical studies do not guarantee that the conclusions of future research or studies will suggest identical or even similar conclusions or that historic results referred to in this press release would not be interpreted differently, in light of additional research and clinical and preclinical study results. Because such statements deal with future events and are based on Bioblast Pharma Ltd.’s current expectations, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties and actual results, performance or achievements of Bioblast Pharma could differ materially from those described in or implied by the statements in this press release, including those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Bioblast Pharma’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 29, 2016, and in any subsequent filings with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, Bioblast Pharma disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise.

INVESTOR CONTACT
Matthew P. Duffy
Managing Director
LifeSci Advisors LLC
Phone:  212-915-0685
Thursday, January 26th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $ORPN to Host Key Opinion Leader Lunch, Focus on #Orphan #NeurologicalDisease

$FFHL Material Increase in #PolyesterFilm for #PCB

BEIJING, Jan. 26, 2017  — Fuwei Films (Holdings) Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: FFHL) (“Fuwei Films” or the “Company”), a manufacturer and distributor of high-quality BOPET plastic films in China, today announced that the Company has signed an annual sales contract for 2017 with Eternal Electronic Material (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd. (“Eternal Electronic”), one of the Company’s top five customers during the year ended December 31, 2015 that purchases polyester film for PCB from Fuwei Films. Polyester film for PCB is a base film for dry film. Eternal Electronic is a well-known manufacturer of dry films globally, which is mainly used in Printed Circuit Boards (“PCB”). Based on the new contract, Fuwei expects that the total polyester film for PCB sales in the first quarter of 2017 will approximately increase by 34.5% compared to the same period of 2016. Fuwei Films continues to improve its product quality and has been supplying Eternal Electronic with advantageous prices and sound services for the past few years.

“We believe that the increase of orders from Eternal Electronic demonstrates that our product quality of polyester film for PCB is recognized by our customers,” commented Mr. Zengyong Wang, Chairman of Fuwei Films, “Our Company will continue to execute a portfolio of products that optimizes a higher margin strategy. We intend to continue to leverage our R&D capabilities and develop new, high-quality products with strong profit margins and maintain our excellent customer service in order to maintain a competitive advantage over our competitors.”

About Fuwei Films

Fuwei Films conducts its business through its wholly owned subsidiary, Fuwei Films (Shandong) Co., Ltd. (“Fuwei Shandong”). Fuwei Shandong develops, manufactures and distributes high-quality plastic films using the biaxial oriented stretch technique, otherwise known as BOPET film (biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate). Fuwei’s BOPET film is widely used to package food, medicine, cosmetics, tobacco, and alcohol, as well as in the imaging, electronics, and magnetic products industries.

Safe Harbor

This press release contains information that constitutes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are subject to risks. Risk factors that could contribute to such differences include those matters more fully disclosed in the Company’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission which, among other things, include both the possible delisting of the Company’s ordinary shares from the NASDAQ Global Market; significant competition in the BOPET film industry, especially the significant oversupply of BOPET films resulting from the rapid growth of the Chinese BOPET industry capacity, changes in the international market and trade barriers, especially the adverse impact of the antidumping investigation and imposition of an anti-dumping duty on imports of the BOPET films originating from the People’s Republic of China (“China”) conducted by certain main importing countries; and the effect of the recent US presidential election on trade policy, fluctuations of RMB exchange rate, the reduce in demand for the Company’s products or the loss of main customers which may result in the decrease of sales, and negatively influencing the Company’s financial performance, uncertainty as to the future profitability, uncertainty as to the Company’s ability to successfully obtain additional funds to meet the working capital needs of the new BOPET production line, uncertainty as to the Company’s ability to continuously develop new BOPET film products to be produced by the third production line and keep up with changes in BOPET film technology, risks associated with possible defects and errors in its products including complaints and claims from clients, uncertainty as to its ability to protect and enforce its intellectual property rights, uncertainty as to its ability to attract and retain qualified executives and personnel, and uncertainty in acquiring raw materials on time and on acceptable terms, particularly in light of the volatility in the prices of petroleum products in recent years, instability of power and energy supply, and the uncertainty regarding the future operation of the Company in connection with the changes in the labor law in China, the measures taken by the Chinese government to save energy and reduce emissions, and the complaints from nearby residents and local government about the noise caused by our production as well as the uncertainty of the impact of major shareholder transfer that have substantial influence over the Company and the Company’s business operation including possible overlap of our BOPET products, customers and market orientation with an BOPET film manufacturer, which is controlled by the same individual who has control over the shares of our major shareholder. The forward-looking information provided herein represents the Company’s estimates as of the date of the press release, and subsequent events and developments may cause the Company’s estimates to change. The Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update the forward-looking information in the future. Therefore, this forward-looking information should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s estimates of its future financial performance as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Actual results of our operations may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of the risk factors.

For more information, please contact:

In China:

Ms. Xiaoli Yu
Investor Relations Manager
Phone: +86-133-615-59266
Email: fuweiIR@fuweifilms.com

In the U.S.:

Vivian Chen
Investor Relations
Grayling
Phone: +1-646-284-9427
Email: vivian.chen@grayling.com

Thursday, January 26th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $FFHL Material Increase in #PolyesterFilm for #PCB

$RGSE Announces #PublicOffering of Common Stock and Warrants

LOUISVILLE, Colo., Jan. 26, 2017  — RGS Energy (NASDAQ:RGSE) today announced that it commenced a public offering of (A) units each consisting of one share of Class A common stock, par value $0.0001, or “Common Stock,” and a Series K Warrant to purchase Common Stock, and (B) units each consisting of one prepaid Series L Warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock and a Series K Warrant to purchase Common Stock.  Roth Capital Partners is serving as exclusive placement agent in the offering on a “best efforts” basis.

The offering is being conducted pursuant to a prospectus supplement and an accompanying prospectus filed as part of an effective shelf registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Prospective investors should read the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and the other documents that RGS Energy has filed with the SEC for more complete information about RGS Energy and the offering. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the offering are available free of charge on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may also be obtained from the offices of Roth Capital Partners at 888 San Clemente Drive, Suite 400, Newport Beach, CA 92660.

This announcement shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any offer or sale of any securities, in any state or jurisdiction in which the offer, solicitation, or sale of securities would be unlawful. Any offers, solicitations of offers to buy, or sales of securities will only be made pursuant to the registration statement filed with the SEC, including the related prospectus.

About RGS Energy
RGS Energy (NASDAQ:RGSE) is a residential and small commercial solar company since 1978, which has installed more than 25,000 solar power systems. RGS Energy makes it very convenient for customers to save on their energy bill by providing turnkey solar solutions – from system design, construction planning, customer financing assistance, installation, to interconnection and warranty.

RGS Energy is the company’s registered trade name. The company files periodic and other reports with the SEC under its official name “Real Goods Solar, Inc.”

Media and Investor Relations Contact for RGS Energy:

Ron Both
Managing Partner, CMA
Tel 1-949-432-7566
RGSE@cma.team
Thursday, January 26th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $RGSE Announces #PublicOffering of Common Stock and Warrants

$NVIV #INSPIRE Study of #NeuroSpinalScaffold, Promising Sixth Patient Conversion

-Patient Converts from Complete Paralysis to Partial Paralysis-

InVivo Therapeutics Holdings Corp. (NVIV) today announced that the patient enrolled in December in the INSPIRE study of the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold has improved from a complete AIS A spinal cord injury to an incomplete AIS B spinal cord injury in the time between discharge and the one-month evaluation. This is the sixth out of the eleven patients (54.5% conversion rate) in follow-up to have had an AIS grade improvement. Two patients who have not yet converted are early in follow-up, with conversion possible before the six-month endpoint. The INSPIRE conversion rate is considerably higher than rates observed in a range of SCI natural history databases.

Domagoj Coric, M.D., of Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates, said: “I have been encouraged by the data generated to date in the INSPIRE study, including the two conversions in patients that I have implanted with the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold.” Dr. Coric, Chief of Neurosurgery at the Carolinas Medical Center and a member of the INSPIRE Study Steering Committee performed the implantation with his partner at Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates, Samuel Chewning, M.D.

“The AIS conversion rate observed thus far in the INSPIRE study has exceeded expectations,” CEO and Chairman Mark Perrin said. “We look forward to following this patient’s progress, and we’re hopeful that we will continue to observe positive INSPIRE results as we work towards completing enrollment.”

About The INSPIRE Study

The INSPIRE Study: InVivo Study of Probable Benefit of the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold™ for Safety and Neurologic Recovery in Subjects with Complete Thoracic AIS A Spinal Cord Injury, is designed to demonstrate the safety and probable benefit of the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold™ for the treatment of complete T2-T12/L1 spinal cord injury in support of a Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE) application for approval. The FDA has recommended that InVivo include a control arm in the study as part of a Study Design Consideration. We are in discussions with the FDA on this recommendation, and we continue to believe that our current study design is sufficient to demonstrate safety and probable benefit in support of a HDE application for marketing approval. For more information, refer to https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02138110.

About the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold™ Implant

Following acute spinal cord injury, surgical implantation of the biodegradable Neuro-Spinal Scaffold within the decompressed and debrided injury epicenter is intended to support appositional healing, thereby reducing post-traumatic cavity formation, sparing white matter, and allowing neural regeneration across the healed wound epicenter. The Neuro-Spinal Scaffold, an investigational device, has received a Humanitarian Use Device (HUD) designation and currently is being evaluated in the INSPIRE pivotal probable benefit study for the treatment of patients with complete (AIS A) traumatic acute spinal cord injury.

About InVivo Therapeutics

InVivo Therapeutics Holdings Corp. is a research and clinical-stage biomaterials and biotechnology company with a focus on treatment of spinal cord injuries. The company was founded in 2005 with proprietary technology co-invented by Robert Langer, Sc.D., Professor at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Joseph P. Vacanti, M.D., who then was at Boston Children’s Hospital and who now is affiliated with Massachusetts General Hospital. In 2011, the company earned the David S. Apple Award from the American Spinal Injury Association for its outstanding contribution to spinal cord injury medicine. In 2015, the company’s investigational Neuro-Spinal Scaffold received the 2015 Becker’s Healthcare Spine Device Award. The publicly-traded company is headquartered in Cambridge, MA. For more details, visit www.invivotherapeutics.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Any statements contained in this press release that do not describe historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements can be identified by words such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “expect,” “designed to,” “potentially,” and similar expressions, and include statements regarding the safety and effectiveness of the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold, the timing of additional enrollments, and the expectation for application for an HDE. Any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on current expectations, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual future results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties relating to the company’s ability to successfully open additional clinical sites for enrollment and to enroll additional patients; the timing of the Institutional Review Board process; the company’s ability to commercialize its products; the company’s ability to develop, market and sell products based on its technology; the expected benefits and efficacy of the company’s products and technology in connection with the treatment of spinal cord injuries; the availability of substantial additional funding for the company to continue its operations and to conduct research and development, clinical studies and future product commercialization; and other risks associated with the company’s business, research, product development, regulatory approval, marketing and distribution plans and strategies identified and described in more detail in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, and its other filings with the SEC, including the company’s Form 10-Qs and current reports on Form 8-K. The company does not undertake to update these forward-looking statements.

 

InVivo Therapeutics
Brian Luque, 617-863-5535
Investor Relations
bluque@invivotherapeutics.com

Tuesday, January 24th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $NVIV #INSPIRE Study of #NeuroSpinalScaffold, Promising Sixth Patient Conversion

$BOBE Restaurant Sales, #PinelandFarms #Acquisition Mark Beginning of New Era

  • Bob Evans Farms, Inc. announces definitive agreements for the sale of Bob Evans Restaurants and the purchase of Pineland Farms Potato Company, enabling the Company to focus on driving growth of BEF Foods
  • Golden Gate Capital to acquire Bob Evans Restaurants for $565 million plus assumption of certain net working capital liabilities. Net proceeds of $475 to $485 million expected
  • Net proceeds of Bob Evans Restaurants transaction expected to be used for repayment of outstanding indebtedness and payment of a special dividend of approximately $150 million ($7.50 per share) within approximately 60 days following closing
  • BEF Foods acquiring Pineland Farms Potato Company for $115 million using new borrowings. Purchase price may be increased if certain financial metrics are achieved during a 24-month period after closing
  • Both transactions expected to close by the end of fiscal 2017 (April 28, 2017)
  • Company reaffirms fiscal year 2017 non-GAAP(1) adjusted diluted EPS guidance range of $2.15 to $2.30 assuming April 28, 2017, closings. Company also announces preliminary fiscal year 2018 Bob Evans Farms, Inc. revenue and EBITDA(1) targets of $470 million, and $105 million, respectively, assuming closing of both transactions on April 28, 2017
  • Mike Townsley, President, BEF Foods, will assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Bob Evans Farms, Inc. following the closing of the Bob Evans Restaurants transaction

NEW ALBANY, Ohio, Jan. 24, 2017  — Bob Evans Farms, Inc. (NASDAQ:BOBE) today announced two transformational transactions resulting from the board of directors’ strategic review of the Company’s alternatives for creating shareholder value.

The sale of Bob Evans Restaurants and the acquisition of Pineland Farms Potato Company (“PFPC”) marks the beginning of a new era at Bob Evans Farms (“Bob Evans”) in which the Company will focus exclusively on realizing the full potential of its BEF Foods business. BEF Foods is the national market share leader in refrigerated dinner side dishes, and is also the market share leader in sausage products in its core Midwest markets. The new Bob Evans, further strengthened by the manufacturing and intellectual capital of PFPC, is positioned to be a higher profit and higher growth company that is expected to provide better returns to shareholders and an enhanced product line for customers.

The Company has entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of Bob Evans Restaurants to an affiliate of Golden Gate Capital for $565 million plus assumption of certain net working capital liabilities at the time of closing estimated to be $40 to $50 million. The Company estimates that cash proceeds net of taxes and transaction-related costs will be $475 to $485 million. As discussed below, net cash proceeds are expected to be used to repay current indebtedness and payment of a special dividend. Additionally, the Company entered into a definitive agreement for the purchase of PFPC for $115 million. The purchase price may be increased by up to $25 million if certain financial metrics are achieved during a 24-month period after closing.

President and Chief Executive Officer Saed Mohseni said, “Today we announced two transactions that are a major step in our strategic transformation that we believe will continue Bob Evans’ history of success. The sale of Bob Evans Restaurants enables us to concentrate exclusively on BEF Foods, our fastest growing and most profitable segment. We believe this focus will result in higher returns for our shareholders and, as a more focused private business, Bob Evans Restaurants will be better able to deliver on its brand promise of providing quality food and hospitality to every guest at every meal. Bob Evans Restaurants has made tremendous progress over the last few years as our teams have strived to upgrade every aspect of the guest experience. We believe our talented restaurant teams, combined with Golden Gate Capital’s industry expertise and significant resources, positions Bob Evans Restaurants well for realizing its full potential.

“I am also pleased that we have signed an agreement to purchase PFPC. We believe this transaction will better enable BEF Foods to continue growing and innovating. The acquisition of PFPC not only increases our side-dish production capacity, it provides capability to produce and sell diced and shredded potato products in both the retail and foodservice channels. The acquisition also diversifies our production capability by adding a second state-of-the-art potato processing facility with 180 million pounds of capacity, 50 million pounds of which are expected to come online in April 2017. Furthermore, PFPC comes with a 900 acre potato farm and is surrounded by an additional 55,000+ acres of annual potato production. Its close proximity to tens of thousands of acres of potato production is particularly attractive as it greatly reduces transportation costs. BEF Food’s side-dish product mix is expected to reach 66% of sales volume by 2020, and the PFPC acquisition mitigates the need for near term capital spending for additional capacity to meet our growth targets. Following the completion of these transactions, Bob Evans will be focused exclusively on sales and profit growth of BEF Foods.”

Executive Chairman Doug Benham said, “The board of directors has consistently evaluated all options for creating shareholder value. From the outset, our philosophy has been to engage in a robust and deliberate process in an effort to make what we believe are the best decisions for shareholders. We believe these transactions are the best options for creating shareholder value and providing for the future success of these two great businesses.

“Following the closing of the Bob Evans Restaurants transaction, Mike Townsley, President, BEF Foods, will assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Bob Evans. Mike joined Bob Evans as president and chief operating officer of Owens Foods, Inc. in June 2003. Mike was appointed president of BEF Foods in June 2008. He also served as co-chief executive officer from December 2014 to September 2015. Mike has been the driving force behind the transformation of BEF Foods and we look forward to continued strong leadership from him and his team, including Chief Administrative and Chief Financial Officer Mark Hood who will remain in his role. The board appreciates the extraordinary talent, energy, and vision that Saed Mohseni has brought to Bob Evans and is excited that he has agreed to continue leading Bob Evans Restaurants following the transaction.”

Josh Cohen, Managing Director at Golden Gate Capital, said, “Bob Evans Restaurants is an exceptional brand, uniquely differentiated by its deep-rooted heritage of farm-fresh food and heartfelt hospitality. As an independent company partnered with Golden Gate Capital, Bob Evans Restaurants will be well-positioned to sharpen its focus on enhancing the business, with increased flexibility and resources to grow the company for the long-term. We look forward to working with Saed Mohseni and the talented management team to support Bob Evans Restaurants as it enters this exciting new chapter.”

Chief Administrative and Chief Financial Officer Mark Hood said, “The Company expects to provide an updated GAAP EPS guidance range and recast Bob Evans Restaurants’ results as discontinued operations when it reports third quarter fiscal 2017 results. We are reaffirming our full-year fiscal 2017 non-GAAP diluted EPS guidance range of $2.15 to $2.30, assuming a closing date of April 28, 2017, on the aforementioned transactions. Furthermore, it is our expectation that our board of directors will declare a special dividend of approximately $150 million ($7.50 per share) representing net cash proceeds from the sale of Bob Evans Restaurants after repayment of debt within 60 days following the transaction. Additionally, the board of directors increased the Company’s existing share repurchase authorization to $100 million through calendar year 2017. We also anticipate continuation of our quarterly dividend payments, currently at $0.34 per share.

“We are also providing fiscal year 2018 preliminary revenue and EBITDA targets of $470 million, and $105 million, respectively. We expect to establish a $300 million credit facility at the time of the transaction closings and expect that our targeted leverage range will be 1.0-2.0x which provides considerable flexibility to continue to grow and invest in BEF Foods.”

CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS:

The Company will host a conference call to discuss this announcement at 8:30 a.m. (ET) on Wednesday, January 25, 2017. The dial-in number for the conference call is (855) 468-0551, access code 54342985. A replay will be available at (800) 585-8367, access code 54342985.

A simultaneous webcast will be available at http://investors.bobevans.com/events.cfm. The archived webcast will also be available on the Web site.

The closings of the transactions are each subject to expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, and other customary closing conditions. The sale of the Bob Evans Restaurants business to Golden Gate Capital is not subject to a financing condition. Under the terms of the definitive agreement for the sale of the Bob Evans Restaurants business, the Company will provide certain transactional support services to the buyer for a period of 18 to 24 months following the closing.

Under the terms of the definitive agreement for the sale of the Bob Evans Restaurant business, the Company may solicit superior proposals from third parties through February 28, 2017. It is not anticipated that any developments will be disclosed with regard to this process unless the Company’s Board of Directors makes a decision with respect to a potential superior proposal. There are no guarantees that this process will result in a superior proposal.

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC served as financial advisor to the Company on the sale of Bob Evans Restaurants. UBS Investment Bank served as financial advisor to Golden Gate Capital.

Information concerning this event was filed by the Company today with the Securities and Exchange Commission and can be obtained at www.sec.gov.

(1)Non-GAAP Financial Measures
We have included in this release a forecast of adjusted diluted EPS and EBITDA for future periods. These forward-looking financial measures are not presented in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP).

Our non-GAAP measures are used by analysts, investors and other interested parties to compare our performance with the performance of other companies that report similar non-GAAP measures. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide meaningful supplemental information regarding financial performance by excluding certain expenses and benefits that may not be indicative of core business operating results. We believe the non-GAAP measures, when viewed in conjunction with U.S. GAAP results and the accompanying reconciliations, enhance the comparability of results against prior periods and allow for greater transparency of financial results and business outlook. In addition, we use non-GAAP data internally to assess performance and facilitate management’s internal comparison of our financial performance to that of prior periods, as well as trend analysis for budgeting and planning purposes. The presentation of our non-GAAP measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Furthermore, our non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies and may have limitations as an analytical tool. We define EBITDA as GAAP net income plus interest expense, provision for income taxes, depreciation, and amortization.

Reconciliations of the Company’s projected adjusted diluted EPS for fiscal year 2017 and EBITDA for fiscal year 2018 to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are omitted from this release because the Company is unable to provide such reconciliations without unreasonable effort. In particular, in light of the transactions being announced in this release, management is not able to calculate certain amounts necessary to provide corresponding forecasted financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP and related reconciliations at this time as a result of the complexity of recasting historical information to reflect the Company’s Bob Evans Restaurants segment as a discontinued operation, the complexity in completion of purchase accounting related to the PFPC acquired assets and operations on a pro forma basis, and the inherent difficulty in forecasting generally and in quantifying certain projected amounts that are necessary for such calculations and reconciliations.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
Certain statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve various important assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements because of various factors and possible events. The risks and uncertainties in connection with such forward-looking statements related to the proposed transactions include, but are not limited to, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could delay the closing of either of the proposed transactions; the possibility of non-consummation of the proposed transactions and the termination of the respective transaction agreements; the failure to satisfy any of the conditions to the respective transaction agreements; adverse effects on the Company’s common stock because of the failure to complete either of the proposed transactions; the Company’s businesses experiencing disruptions due to transaction-related uncertainty or other factors making it more difficult to maintain relationships with employees and business partners; significant transaction costs related to the proposed transactions; and the dependence on the proposed special dividend of the consummation of the sale of the Bob Evans Restaurants Business. Additional information about the factors and events that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted by the forward looking statements, along with certain other risks, uncertainties and assumptions related to the Company and its business, may be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 29, 2016, and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We note these factors for investors as contemplated by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Predicting or identifying all such risk factors is impossible. Consequently, investors should not consider any such list to be a complete set of all potential risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date of the statement to reflect unanticipated events. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or any person acting on behalf of the Company are qualified by the cautionary statements in this section.

About Bob Evans Farms, Inc.
Bob Evans Farms, Inc. owns and operates full-service restaurants under the Bob Evans Restaurants brand name. At the end of the second fiscal quarter (October 28, 2016), Bob Evans Restaurants owned and operated 522 family restaurants in 18 states, primarily in the Midwest, mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions of the United States. Bob Evans Farms, Inc., through its BEF Foods segment, is also a leading producer and distributor of refrigerated side dishes, pork sausage, and a variety of refrigerated and frozen convenience food items under the Bob Evans and Owens brand names. For more information about Bob Evans Farms, Inc., visit www.bobevans.com.

About Pineland Farms Potato Company
Nearly twenty years ago a group of fourth generation Maine potato farmers had a vision that would create jobs, business opportunities, and a brighter future for the young people of northern Maine. In 1997, they built a state-of-the-art potato processing facility that transformed the thousands of acres of potatoes grown in the region from a commodity to a refrigerated ready-to-cook product. In addition to contracting processing potatoes from many family-owned farms, the company purchased its own farming operation in 2012 and became a vertically integrated business. The company’s key products include a wide variety of cut and mashed potato products serving retail and foodservice customers.

About Golden Gate Capital
Golden Gate Capital is a San Francisco-based private equity investment firm with over $15 billion of capital under management. The principals of Golden Gate Capital have a long and successful history of investing across a wide range of industries and transaction types, including going-privates, corporate divestitures, and recapitalizations, as well as debt and public equity investments. Representative restaurant/retail investments sponsored by Golden Gate Capital include Red Lobster, California Pizza Kitchen, On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, Eddie Bauer, Express, Pacific Sunwear, Payless ShoeSource and Zales.

BOBE-G

 

Contacts:

Bob Evans Farms, Inc.
Scott C. Taggart
Vice President, Investor Relations
(614) 492-4954

Golden Gate Capital
Jenny Gore/Alyssa Linn
(312) 895-4700/(310) 201-2040
Tuesday, January 24th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $BOBE Restaurant Sales, #PinelandFarms #Acquisition Mark Beginning of New Era

$CLRB Additional #US #Patent #CLR131 & #CLR125 in Broad Spectrum of #SolidTumors

MADISON, Wis., Jan. 24, 2017  — Cellectar Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq:CLRB), an oncology-focused clinical stage biotechnology company, today announces that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”) has granted patent number 9,550,002, which covers method of use for the company’s lead compound, CLR 131, as well as CLR 125, for the treatment of cancer. The granting of this patent follows the company’s previous announcement of patent allowances for the use of the company’s phospholipid drug conjugate (PDC) delivery platform in these tumor types.
“This patent strengthens our radiotherapeutic intellectual property portfolio and further demonstrates Cellectar’s commitment to optimizing our PDC technology platform,” said Jim Caruso, president and CEO of Cellectar.  “While we are currently focused on developing CLR 131 for hematologic malignancies such as multiple myeloma, the claims granted provide additional development optionality for Cellectar or a potential partner.”

The granted patent covers the use of CLR 131 for the potential treatment of a broad range of malignant solid tumors, which include adrenal, lung, ovarian or cervical, prostate, liver, breast and colon, as well as melanoma or subcutaneous cancers.

About CLR 131
CLR 131 is an investigational compound under development for a range of hematologic malignancies.  It is currently being evaluated in a Phase I clinical trial in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.  The company plans to initiate a Phase II clinical study to assess efficacy in a range of B-cell malignancies in the first quarter of 2017.  Based upon pre-clinical and interim Phase I study data, treatment with CLR 131 provides a novel approach to treating hematological diseases and may provide patients with therapeutic benefits, including overall response rate (ORR), an improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall quality of life.  CLR 131 utilizes the company’s patented PDC tumor targeting delivery platform to deliver a cytotoxic radioisotope, iodine-131 directly to tumor cells.  The FDA has granted Cellectar an orphan drug designation for CLR 131 in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

About CLR 125
CLR 125 is a broad-spectrum, cancer-targeting, radiotherapeutic, which may be uniquely suited to treat micro-metastatic disease. CLR 125 uses the radioisotope iodine-125 conjugated to the company’s proprietary phospholipid drug conjugate (PDC) delivery platform. Similar to CLR 131, the selective uptake and retention of CLR 125 has been observed in malignant tissues during pre-clinical studies. Funded by a recent NCI SBIR award, the company evaluated the feasibility and safety of CLR 125 for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in the (neo) adjuvant setting.  This program has successfully completed and demonstrated appropriate biodistribution, tolerability, and dose response.

About Phospholipid Drug Conjugates (PDCs)
Cellectar’s product candidates are built upon its patented cancer cell-targeting delivery and retention platform of optimized phospholipid ether-drug conjugates (PDCs).  The company deliberately designed its phospholipid ether (PLE) carrier platform to be coupled with a variety of payloads to facilitate both therapeutic and diagnostic applications.  The basis for selective tumor targeting of our PDC compounds lies in the differences between the plasma membranes of cancer cells compared to those of normal cells.  Cancer cell membranes are highly enriched in lipid rafts, which are glycolipoprotein microdomains of the plasma membrane of cells that contain high concentrations of cholesterol and sphingolipids, and serve to organize cell surface and intracellular signaling molecules.  PDCs have been tested in more than 80 different xenograft models of cancer.

About Cellectar Biosciences, Inc.
Cellectar Biosciences is developing phospholipid drug conjugates (PDCs) designed to provide cancer targeted delivery of diverse oncologic payloads to a broad range of cancers and cancer stem cells.  Cellectar’s PDC platform is based on the company’s proprietary phospholipid ether analogs.  These novel small-molecules have demonstrated highly selective uptake and retention in a broad range of cancers.  Cellectar’s PDC pipeline includes product candidates for cancer therapy and cancer diagnostic imaging.  The company’s lead therapeutic PDC, CLR 131, utilizes iodine-131, a cytotoxic radioisotope, as its payload.  CLR 131 is currently being evaluated under an orphan drug designated Phase I clinical study in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.  In addition, the company plans to initiate a Phase II clinical study to assess efficacy in a range of B-cell malignancies in the first quarter of 2017.  The company is also developing PDCs for targeted delivery of chemotherapeutics such as paclitaxel (CLR 1603-PTX), a preclinical stage product candidate, and plans to expand its PDC chemotherapeutic pipeline through both in-house and collaborative R&D efforts.  For more information please visit www.cellectar.com.

This news release contains forward-looking statements.  You can identify these statements by our use of words such as “may,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “could,” “estimate,” “continue,” “plans,” or their negatives or cognates.  These statements are only estimates and predictions and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future experience and results to differ materially from the statements made.  These statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations as to such future outcomes.  Drug discovery and development involve a high degree of risk.  Factors that might cause such a material difference include, among others, uncertainties related to the ability to raise additional capital, uncertainties related to the ability to attract and retain partners for our technologies, the identification of lead compounds, the successful preclinical development thereof, the completion of clinical trials, the FDA review process and other government regulation, our pharmaceutical collaborators’ ability to successfully develop and commercialize drug candidates, competition from other pharmaceutical companies, product pricing and third-party reimbursement.  A complete description of risks and uncertainties related to our business is contained in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including our Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2015.  These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and we disclaim any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.

 

CONTACT: 
Jules Abraham
JQA Partners, Inc.
917-885-7378
jabraham@jqapartners.com
Tuesday, January 24th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $CLRB Additional #US #Patent #CLR131 & #CLR125 in Broad Spectrum of #SolidTumors

$CDTI #Partners with #DENSO #NorthAmerica #HeavyDuty #Automotive Market

Reflects CDTi’s growing success as a leading provider of enabling emission control technology

OXNARD, Calif., Jan. 24, 2017  — Clean Diesel Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:CDTI) (“CDTi” or “the Company”), a leader in advanced emission control technology, has partnered with DENSO Products and Services Americas Inc., an affiliate of leading global automotive supplier DENSO Corp., to supply CDTi’s enabling technologies to the North American heavy-duty market. Under the scope of the partnership the two companies will launch PowerEdge diesel after-treatment, which will be distributed by DENSO and manufactured by CDTi featuring CDTi’s Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) technologies.

“This partnership reflects our continued success in positioning CDTi as a provider of emissions solutions to the global automotive market,” stated Matthew Beale, CDTi’s CEO. “DENSO’s choice of CDTi provides further evidence of our growing technology leadership in the world’s largest heavy-duty markets. We are excited to add DENSO to our growing customer base of global manufacturing and distribution partners.”

“DENSO strives to provide our customers with innovative products that contribute to the productivity of their businesses,” stated Frank Jenkins, senior manager of DENSO’s Heavy Duty Marketing Group, DENSO Products and Services Americas, Inc. “CDTi shares our commitment to product reliability and durability, rigorous safety and performance standards, innovation, customer service and environmental stewardship.”

“Partnering with DENSO supports our continued commercial momentum in the large, fast-growing opportunity for OE-quality after-treatment solutions in North America,” stated Jason P. Soika, CDTi’s Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “This agreement significantly expands our reach into the multi-million-dollar market for replacement DPFs and DOCs. In addition, being selected as a supplier for DENSO further validates the quality of our OEM replacement products.”

Collaborating with CDTI enables DENSO to offer customers an extended range of application coverage by consolidating more than 260 original equipment (OE) part numbers to less than 80. The all-makes strategy provides inventory efficiency by managing fewer SKUs while providing customers with optimal application coverage. Additionally, CDTi is continually introducing OE replacements for emerging applications and monitoring product lifecycle to ensure the portfolio aligns with newly introduced and outgoing technologies.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
A diesel particulate filter, or DPF, is a system that filters exhaust gas flow to capture solid particulate matter (PM) — created as a byproduct of the internal combustion process. DPFs have been used as pollution control devices for both on- and off-road vehicles and equipment since the 1980s. Designed and manufactured in North America, CDTi’s DPFs are exact-fit OEM replacements that meet or exceed OEM emissions requirements and are backed by an industry-leading 2-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC)
A diesel oxidation catalyst, or DOC, is a device that utilizes complex chemical processes to transform hazardous pollutants from diesel engines, turning them into less harmful exhaust, similar to an automobile’s catalytic converter. DOCs are normally honeycombs coated with an active catalyst formulation, engineered in combination with a DPF, to dramatically reduce particulate matter (PM) by 90% along with reducing other dangerous gaseous emissions by 50% to 70%.

About CDTi
CDTi develops advanced materials technology for the emissions control market. CDTi’s proprietary technologies provide high-value sustainable solutions to reduce hazardous emissions, increase energy efficiency and lower the carbon intensity of on- and off-road combustion engine systems. With a continuing focus on innovation-driven commercialization and global expansion, CDTi’s breakthrough Powder-to-Coat (P2C™) technology exploits the Company’s high-performance, advanced low-platinum group metal (PGM) emission reduction catalysts. Key technology platforms include Mixed Phase Catalyst (MPC®), Base Metal Activated Rhodium Support (BMARS™), Synergized PGM (SPGM™), Zero PGM (ZPGM™) and Spinel™. For more information, please visit www.cdti.com.

About DENSO Corporation
DENSO Corp., headquartered in Kariya, Aichi prefecture, Japan, is a leading global automotive supplier of advanced technology, systems and components in the areas of thermal, powertrain control, electronics, information and safety. Its customers include all the world’s major carmakers. Worldwide, the company has more than 200 subsidiaries and affiliates in 38 countries and regions (including Japan) and employs more than 150,000 people. Consolidated global sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2016, totaled US$40.2 billion. Last fiscal year, DENSO spent 8.8 percent of its global consolidated sales on research and development. DENSO common stock is traded on the Tokyo and Nagoya stock exchanges. For more information, go to www.globaldenso.com or visit our media website at http://www.globaldenso.com/en/newsreleases/media-center/.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information contained in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements, including any statements that are not statements of historical fact. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of the words “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “may”, “will”, “would”, “intends”, “estimates”, and other similar expressions, whether in the negative or affirmative. Forward-looking statements are based on a series of expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections, which involve substantial uncertainty and risk. In this document, the Company includes forward-looking statements regarding the acceleration of the Company’s business transformation into an advanced materials company, the conversion of outstanding indebtedness into common stock, global trends in the automotive and heavy duty diesel markets, the Company’s future financial performance, and the performance of the Company’s technology, are all subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results and financial position to differ materially.  In general, actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited, to (i) that the Company may not be able to (a) successfully implement, or implement at all, its strategic priorities; (b) streamline its operations or align its organization and infrastructure with the anticipated business; (c) meet expectations or projections; (d) decrease costs; (e) increase sales; (f) obtain adequate funding; (g) retain or secure customers; (h) increase its customer base; (i) protect its intellectual property; (j) successfully evolve into an advanced materials supplier or, even if successful, increase profitability; (k) successfully market new products; (l)  obtain product verifications or approvals; (m) attract or retain key personnel; (n) validate, optimize and scale our powder-to-coat capability; or (o) realize benefits from investments; (ii) funding for and enforcement and tightening of emissions controls, standards and regulations; (iii) prices of PGM and rare earth metals;  (iv) royalty and other restrictions on sales in certain Asian countries; (v) supply disruptions or failures; (vi) regulatory, marketing and competitive factors; (vii) environmental harm or damages; and (viii) other risks and uncertainties discussed or referenced in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K. In addition, any forward-looking statements represent the Company’s estimates only as of the date of such statements and should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s estimates as of any subsequent date. The Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact Information:
Becky Herrick or Cathy Mattison
LHA (IR Agency)
+1 415 433 3777
bherrick@lhai.com / cmattison@lhai.com

Tuesday, January 24th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $CDTI #Partners with #DENSO #NorthAmerica #HeavyDuty #Automotive Market

$ASYS Announces Large Orders, #PECVD Systems and #Bifacial #Ntype Tech

TEMPE, Ariz., Jan. 24, 2017  — Amtech Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASYS), a global supplier of production equipment and related supplies for the solar, semiconductor, and LED markets, today announced fiscal year 2017 year-to-date order bookings through January 20, 2017 are approximately $84 million.  This includes solar orders of $60 million.   The solar bookings include major wins for the Company’s high productivity PECVD platform with top tier customers in China, Malaysia, and Taiwan and an n-type bi-facial turnkey order from a new customer in China.  The majority of the orders are expected to ship within the next six to nine months.

Fokko Pentinga, CEO and President of Amtech, commented, “These competitive wins are a direct result of our ongoing investment program and a clear testament to the Company’s ability to meet the market’s expectations as they selectively invest in next-generation technology solutions.  Our newly introduced PECVD platform is recognized as a compelling solution to increase the efficiency in solar cell manufacturing while lowering the cost of ownership.  The continuing development of our advanced n-type technology led to this turnkey order from a customer who will use the technology for Bi-Facial glass-glass module design in the first of a multi-phase 1GW cell and module expansion.  We believe that Amtech has the right mix of n-type and PERC cell technologies for this expanding global solar market where success is driven by the best next-gen technology solutions.  Recently, we have experienced increased customer interest in our n-type technology.  As the solar market looks to the future, we believe n-type cell technology has the best roadmap to higher efficiency.”

About Amtech Systems, Inc.

Amtech Systems, Inc. is a global supplier of advanced thermal processing equipment to the solar, semiconductor / electronics, and LED manufacturing markets. Amtech’s equipment includes diffusion, ALD and PECVD systems and solder reflow systems. Amtech also supplies wafer handling automation and polishing equipment and related consumable products. The Company’s wafer handling, thermal processing and consumable products currently address the diffusion, oxidation, and deposition steps used in the fabrication of solar cells, LEDs, semiconductors, MEMS, printed circuit boards, semiconductor packaging, and the polishing of newly sliced sapphire and silicon wafers. Amtech’s products are recognized under the leading brand names Tempress SystemsTM, Bruce TechnologiesTM, PR HoffmanTM, R2D AutomationTM, SoLayTec, and BTU International.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this press release is forward-looking in nature. All statements in this press release, or made by management of Amtech Systems, Inc. and its subsidiaries (“Amtech”), other than statements of historical fact, are hereby identified as “forward-looking statements” (as such term is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology and are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.  Examples of forward-looking statements include statements regarding Amtech’s future financial results, operating results, business strategies, projected costs, products under development, competitive positions, and plans and objectives of Amtech and its management for future operations.  These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict.  The Form 10-K that Amtech filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for the year-ended September 30, 2016, listed various important factors that could affect the company’s future operating results and financial condition and could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results and expectations based on forward-looking statements made in this document or elsewhere by Amtech or on its behalf.  These factors can be found under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-Ks and investors should refer to them.  Because it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors, any such list cannot be considered a complete set of all potential risks or uncertainties.  Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Contacts:
Amtech Systems, Inc.Robert T. Hass

Chief Financial Officer

(480) 967-5146

irelations@Amtechsystems.com

 

 

ChristensenInvestor Relations

Patty Bruner

(480) 201-6075

pbruner@christensenir.com

Tuesday, January 24th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $ASYS Announces Large Orders, #PECVD Systems and #Bifacial #Ntype Tech

$XON to #Acquire $GNVC Huge Expansion of #GeneDelivery Platform #AdenoVerse

GenVec’s AdenoVerse™ to be Integrated into Intrexon’s Proprietary Synthetic Biology Platform

GERMANTOWN, Md., and GAITHERSBURG, Md., Jan. 24, 2017  — Intrexon Corporation (NYSE: XON), a leader in the engineering and industrialization of biology to improve the quality of life and health of the planet, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire GenVec, Inc. (NASDAQ: GNVC), a clinical-stage company and pioneer in the development of AdenoVerse™ gene delivery technology.

Intrexon intends to integrate and expand upon GenVec’s expertise in adenoviral vectors and cGMP drug product manufacturing to enhance its broad gene transfer capabilities that encompass multiple viral and non-viral platforms.  Notably, the combined technologies have the potential to yield the next generation of adenoviral (AdV) delivery through the creation of a scalable manufacturing platform utilizing helper-dependent adenovirus with significantly higher payload capacity of >30kb, as compared to current viral delivery methods ranging from 4.5kb – 9kb.

Thomas D. Reed, Ph.D., Intrexon’s chief science officer commented, “Our acquisition of GenVec will mark our continuing commitment to add gene delivery platforms that complement our multigenic control systems.  Intrexon’s proficiency in using various viral as well as non-viral transfer techniques to integrate our gene programs affords us the capability to pursue an array of in vivo and ex vivo gene and cell therapy approaches, and the addition of a helper-dependent adenoviral system with a substantial payload capacity dramatically expands the types of in vivo therapeutic programs we can pursue.”

“GenVec has contributed significantly to advancements in gene therapy through its AdenoVerse technology, and over 3,000 clinical trial subjects have received their therapeutics and vaccines across the globe. We are enthusiastic to begin working alongside their highly accomplished research and drug development team,” added Dr. Reed.

“After a detailed and careful evaluation, our board of directors believes that this is the best alternative to maximize value for GenVec’s shareholders,” said Douglas Swirsky, GenVec’s president and CEO. “We expect that the strong scientific synergies, coupled with Intrexon’s extensive resources, will help unlock the true potential of the AdenoVerse platform.”

Through an AdV-based vector, Intrexon has already delivered the first clinically validated transcriptional gene switch utilizing the RheoSwitch Therapeutic System® to regulate the expression and concentration of a powerful cytokine, interleukin-12, to treat cancer.  Intrexon’s gene control systems combined with the array of GenVec’s AdV-based technology is projected to accelerate its ability to develop cutting-edge gene therapies that regulate in vivo expression of multiple therapeutic effectors.

Additionally, GenVec’s selection of vector origins and serotypes as well as know-how in specifying cellular and tissue targets is expected to expedite the design and production of vectors that complement Intrexon’s multigene programming and focus on safety with limited off-target effect.

Douglas E. Brough, Ph.D., GenVec’s chief scientific officer stated, “We are excited to be joining the talented team at Intrexon.  Utilization of their advanced synthetic biology tools and expertise is expected to enable the development of a manufacturing approach that will greatly increase the capacity of our expression cassettes to over 30kb.  This next-generation delivery platform is anticipated to vastly exceed other viral delivery methods and accommodate Intrexon’s advanced gene programming to target complex multi-gene disorders.”

Transaction Terms and Timing

Pursuant to the definitive agreement, upon the closing of the transaction GenVec stockholders will receive 0.297 of a share of Intrexon Common Stock in exchange for each share of GenVec common stock.  This exchange ratio represents $7.00 per share of GenVec’s common stock based on Intrexon’s 5-day volume weighted average price as of January 23, 2017.  GenVec stockholders will also receive a right to contingent consideration equal to 50% of any milestone or royalty payments received within 36 months after the closing of the transaction under GenVec’s Research Collaboration and License Agreement with Novartis. Consummation of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including GenVec stockholder approval, and is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2017.

Roth Capital Partners provided advisory services to the Board of Directors of GenVec in connection with the transaction, and Hogan Lovells is serving as legal counsel to GenVec.  Thompson Hine is serving as legal counsel to Intrexon.

About Intrexon Corporation

Intrexon Corporation (NYSE:XON) is Powering the Bioindustrial Revolution with Better DNA™ to create biologically-based products that improve the quality of life and the health of the planet. The Company’s integrated technology suite provides its partners across diverse markets with industrial-scale design and development of complex biological systems delivering unprecedented control, quality, function, and performance of living cells. We call our synthetic biology approach Better DNA®, and we invite you to discover more at www.dna.com or follow us on Twitter at @Intrexon, on Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About GenVec

GenVec is a clinical-stage gene delivery company focused on developing a pipeline of cutting-edge therapeutics and vaccines using its proprietary AdenoVerse platform. The company is a pioneer in the design, testing and manufacture of adenoviral-based product candidates that can deliver on the promise of gene-based medicine. GenVec’s lead product candidate, CGF166, is licensed to Novartis and is currently in a Phase 1/2 clinical study for the treatment of hearing loss and balance disorders. In addition to its internal and partnered pipeline, the company is also focused on opportunities to license its proprietary technology platform, including vectors and production cell lines, for the development and manufacture of therapeutics and vaccines to the biopharmaceutical industry. Additional information about GenVec is available at www.genvec.com and in the company’s various filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Trademarks

Intrexon, Powering the Bioindustrial Revolution with Better DNA, and Better DNA are trademarks of Intrexon and/or its affiliates.  AdenoVerse™ is a trademark of GenVec, Inc.  Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Safe Harbor Statement

This communication contains “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, known as the PSLRA. These statements, as they relate to Intrexon Corporation (“Intrexon”) or GenVec, Inc (“GenVec”), the management of either such company, the proposed transaction between Intrexon and GenVec, or the future development of gene delivery technology and gene therapies as a result of the transaction, involve risks and uncertainties that may cause results to differ materially from those set forth in the statements. These statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. Intrexon and GenVec undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by law. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections about the business and future financial results of the biotechnology industry, and other legal, regulatory and economic developments. We use words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “future,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “guidance,” and similar expressions to identify these forward-looking statements that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the PSLRA. Actual results could differ materially from the results contemplated by these forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including, but not limited to, those described in the documents Intrexon and GenVec have filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), risks related to the development of gene delivery technology and gene therapies, as well as the possibility that (1) Intrexon and GenVec may be unable to obtain stockholder or regulatory approvals required for the proposed transaction or may be required to accept conditions that could reduce the anticipated benefits of the merger as a condition to obtaining regulatory approvals; (2) the length of time necessary to consummate the proposed transaction may be longer than anticipated; (3) problems may arise in successfully integrating the business and technologies of Intrexon and GenVec; (4) the proposed transaction may involve unexpected costs; (5) the businesses may suffer as a result of uncertainty surrounding the proposed transaction, including difficulties in maintaining relationships with third parties or retaining key employees; (6) the parties may be unable to meet expectations regarding the timing, completion and accounting and tax treatments of the transaction; or (7) the industry may be subject to future risks that are described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed from time to time with the SEC by Intrexon and GenVec. Neither Intrexon nor GenVec gives any assurance that either Intrexon or GenVec will achieve its expectations.

The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties that affect the businesses of Intrexon and GenVec described in the “Risk Factors” section of their respective Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed by either of them from time to time with the SEC. All forward-looking statements included in this document are based upon information available to Intrexon and GenVec on the date hereof, and neither Intrexon nor GenVec assumes any obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This document relates to a proposed transaction between GenVec and Intrexon, which will become the subject of a registration statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus forming a part thereof to be filed with the SEC by Intrexon. This document is not a substitute for the registration statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus that Intrexon will file with the SEC or any other documents that GenVec or Intrexon may file with the SEC or send to stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Before making any voting decision, investors and security holders are urged to read the registration statement, joint proxy statement/prospectus and all other relevant documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction as they become available because they will contain important information about the proposed transaction and related matters.

Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the registration statement, joint proxy statement/prospectus and all other relevant documents filed or that will be filed with the SEC by GenVec or Intrexon through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

In addition, investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the joint proxy statement/prospectus, once it is filed, from GenVec by accessing GenVec’s website at ir.genvec.com/all-sec-filings or upon written request to ir@genvec.com.

Participants in Solicitation

Intrexon, GenVec and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from GenVec’s stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding GenVec’s directors and executive officers is contained in the proxy statement for GenVec’s 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on September 12, 2016. You can obtain a free copy of this document at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by accessing GenVec’s website at ir.genvec.com/all-sec-filings. Information regarding Intrexon’s executive officers and directors is contained in the proxy statement for Intrexon’s 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders filed with the SEC on April 29, 2016. You can obtain a free copy of this document at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or by accessing Intrexon’s website at www.dna.com. Additional information regarding the interests of those persons and other persons who may be deemed participants in the proposed transaction may be obtained by reading the joint proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available. You may obtain free copies of this document as described in the preceding paragraph.

For more information regarding Intrexon Corporation, contact:
Investor Contact
Christopher Basta
Vice President, Investor Relations
Tel: +1 (561) 410-7052
investors@intrexon.com

Corporate Contact
Marie Rossi, Ph.D.
Senior Manager, Technical Communications
Tel: +1 (301) 556-9850
publicrelations@intrexon.com

For more information regarding GenVec, contact:
Rena Cohen
Senior Manager, Communications and Administration
Tel: +1 (240) 632-5501
ir@genvec.com

Tuesday, January 24th, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $XON to #Acquire $GNVC Huge Expansion of #GeneDelivery Platform #AdenoVerse

$ADMA to #Acquire Certain Assets from #Biotest; #Plasma

ADMA to secure:

  • Ownership and control of U.S. based Immune Globulin manufacturing facility
  • FDA licensed products portfolio with immediate and on-going commercial sales
  • $40M in Equity/Debt Financing from Biotest AG; ADMA’s cash runway presently expected to be extended to 2H 2018

RAMSEY, N.J., Jan. 23, 2017  — ADMA Biologics, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADMA), a late-stage biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures, and intends to commercialize specialty plasma-based biologics for the proposed treatment of immune deficiencies and prevention of certain infectious diseases, today announced it signed a definitive agreement to acquire certain manufacturing and therapy-related assets from Biotest Pharmaceuticals Corporation (BPC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Biotest AG.  The transaction, subject to customary closing conditions, including shareholder approval, is expected to close during the first half of 2017.

ADMA’s lead product candidate, RI-002, is manufactured at BPC’s facility in Boca Raton, Florida.  ADMA  has been working closely with BPC on resolving certain issues at this facility in connection with deficiencies identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in ADMA’s Complete Response Letter (CRL) for RI-002 (July 2016).  RI-002 is a specialty plasma-derived, polyclonal, intravenous immune globulin (IGIV).  ADMA is pursuing an indication for the use of this specialty IGIV product for treatment of patients diagnosed with Primary Immune Deficiency Disease (PIDD).

“Upon the completion of this transaction, ADMA believes it will be uniquely positioned to offer a fully vertically integrated plasma products and immune globulin platform in the U.S.  This transaction will allow ADMA to work directly with the FDA in efforts to obtain U.S. regulatory approval for RI-002 and remediate the outstanding Warning Letter at the manufacturing facility,” stated Adam Grossman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Director and Founder of ADMA Biologics.

“Through this transformative transaction, we believe that combining these acquired assets with our innovative immune globulin intellectual property will afford ADMA an expedited and less costly pathway for exploring additional hyperimmune globulin product candidates, as well as other potential plasma derived products.  We believe the plasma industry and market are poised for growth in the coming years, as such, ADMA believes that it has secured a prime place for it and its stockholders to reap the rewards associated with marketing novel plasma derived therapies. Additionally, as evidenced by recent transactional activity in the plasma products industry, this transaction should enhance our Company’s competitive positioning and will accelerate ADMA’s growth and ultimately benefit its stockholders,” Mr. Grossman concluded.

Dr. James Mond, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of ADMA Biologics, stated, “Since the receipt of the CRL for RI-002 this past July, ADMA has been working to find a solution to the issues which would result in the most expeditious way to obtain FDA regulatory approval for RI-002.  With the experience of our management team and Board of Directors in the plasma products industry, BPC and Biotest AG have conveyed their belief that ADMA is the ideal company to lead the efforts for the resolution of the Warning Letter at the plant as well as harnessing the potential of the assets and championing the BPC product portfolio.”

“With operational control and the ability to employ ADMA’s strict fiscal management policies and oversight to the operations of these acquired assets, we believe ADMA will generate a positive impact on future gross margins for the company as well as for RI-002, once it’s approved by the FDA,” stated Mr. Brian Lenz, Chief Financial Officer of ADMA Biologics.

“Biotest AG, BPC and ADMA look forward to the closing of this promising and transformative transaction, which is anticipated to occur during the first half of 2017,” said Dr. Bernhard Ehmer, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Management of Biotest AG. “We believe that ADMA’s management team and Board are equipped with the operational expertise required to effectively leverage the acquired manufacturing facilities, and ultimately achieve FDA licensure of RI-002.  We are confident that ADMA is ideally suited to maximize the commercial potential of the acquired assets,” Mr. Ehmer concluded.

The core assets ADMA will be acquiring upon consummation of the proposed transaction include:

  • Property, facilities, laboratories, equipment and certain employees located at 5800 and 5900 Park of Commerce Blvd, Boca Raton, FL, which properties are comprised of two commercial buildings totaling ~126,000 square feet on ~15 acres of land.  The buildings house a fully equipped plasma fractionation and purification plant of FDA licensed biologics, testing laboratories, office space, ambient and cold storage warehouses, as well as a commercial scale monoclonal antibody production facility.
  • FDA licensed products including Nabi-HB™ (Hepatitis B Immune Globulin, Human) and BIVIGAM™ (Immune Globulin Intravenous, Human).
  • Contract manufacturing and services agreement for a third party’s licensed hyperimmune globulin product.
  • Biotest will provide ADMA with cash consideration totaling up to $40 million, consisting of a $12.5 million in cash upon closing, a $15 million unsecured subordinated loan at a six (6%) percent per annum interest rate, and interest only through the life of the loan and final principal payment due in full at the end of the five year loan period, along with a firm equity commitment to invest an additional $12.5 million in future equity financings of ADMA.  Although there can be no assurances, it is presently anticipated that with ADMA’s cash on hand forecasted at the time of the anticipated closing, plus the contractual capital commitments from Biotest AG, ADMA is expected to have sufficient cash for operations into the second half of 2018, if not longer.

The consideration for the above listed assets, cash and financing commitments to be given by ADMA upon the closing of the proposed transaction includes the following:

  • Fifty percent of ADMA’s capital stock, less one share (calculated as of immediately following the closing and on a post-closing issuance basis), consisting of (a) voting common stock equal to 25% of the issued and outstanding common stock of ADMA, and (b) non-voting common stock representing the balance of such 50% equity interest, less one share.
  • The right for BPC to designate one director and one observer to ADMA’s Board of Directors.
  • ADMA will transfer ownership to BPC of its two wholly-owned plasma centers in Norcross, Georgia and Marietta, Georgia, effective January 1, 2019.
  • Biotest AG to maintain its existing distribution rights granted for RI-002 in Europe, Near and Middle East and selected other territories and a right of first offer to BPC for the distribution of potential future ADMA developed plasma based products in the territories.

BPC will be entering into a standstill with ADMA, which will limit BPC’s ability to control the company.  BPC will also agree to a six (6) month lock up of the sale of ADMA securities.

The proposed transaction will be further described in more detail in a current report on Form 8-K and also in a proxy statement on Schedule 14A to be filed by ADMA with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

Conference Call/Webcast
ADMA will be conducting an investor conference call today at 8:30am ET to discuss this transaction.

Toll Free: 800-378-6592
International: 719-457-2695
Conference ID: 4027526
Webcast: http://public.viavid.com/index.php?id=122695

Replays, available through January 27:

Domestic: 844-512-2921
International: 412-317-6671
Replay PIN: 4027526

Advisors
Raymond James & Associates, Inc. has delivered a fairness opinion to ADMA and PJT Partners is serving as strategic and financial advisor to ADMA.  Credit Suisse is serving as financial advisor to Biotest AG.  Legal counsel for ADMA is Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP and for Biotest AG is Greenberg Traurig, LLP.

About ADMA Biologics, Inc.  (ADMA)
ADMA is a late-stage biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and intends to commercialize specialty plasma-based biologics for the proposed treatment of Immune Deficiencies and the prevention and treatment of certain infectious diseases. ADMA’s mission is to develop and commercialize plasma-derived, human immune globulins targeted to niche patient populations for the treatment and prevention of certain infectious diseases. The target patient populations include immune-compromised individuals who suffer from an underlying immune deficiency disease, or who may be immune-compromised for medical reasons. ADMA has received U.S. Patent 9,107,906 relating to certain aspects of its product candidate.  For more information, please visit www.admabiologics.com.

About RI-002
ADMA’s lead product candidate, RI-002, is a specialty plasma-derived, polyclonal, intravenous immune globulin (IGIV) derived from human plasma containing naturally occurring polyclonal antibodies (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, H. influenza type B, cytomegalovirus (CMV), measles, tetanus, etc.) as well as plasma from donors tested to have high levels of neutralizing antibodies to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). ADMA is pursuing an indication for the use of this specialty intravenous immune globulin (IGIV) product for treatment of patients diagnosed with PIDD. Polyclonal antibodies are the primary active component of IGIV products. Polyclonal antibodies are proteins that are used by the body’s immune system to neutralize microbes, such as bacteria and viruses. Data review indicates that the polyclonal antibodies present in RI-002 support its ability to prevent infections in immune-compromised patients.

About Biotest Pharmaceuticals Corporation
Biotest Pharmaceuticals Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Biotest AG, a German global provider of plasma products. The company researches, develops and manufactures biotherapeutic plasma protein products, with a specialization in immunology and hematology and is a leader in the collection of source plasma. Biotest Pharmaceuticals owns and manages plasmapheresis centers across the United States and operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Boca Raton, Florida. Biotest Pharmaceuticals is committed to serving the thousands of patients worldwide who rely on plasma-based therapies. Biotest Pharmaceuticals’ team of over 1,000 employees is part of Biotest AG’s global workforce of more than 2,500 associates worldwide. To learn more about Biotest Pharmaceuticals, its Plasma Centers, and the difference they make in the lives of patients and the healthcare community, please visit them at www.biotestpharma.com and www.biotestplasma.com.

About Biotest AG
Biotest is a provider of plasma proteins and biological drugs. With a value added chain that extends from pre-clinical and clinical development to worldwide sales, Biotest has specialised primarily in the areas of clinical immunology, haematology and intensive medicine. Biotest develops and markets immunoglobulins, coagulation factors and albumins based on human blood plasma. These are used for diseases of the immune and haematopoietic systems. In addition Biotest develops monoclonal antibodies in the indications of cancer of plasma cells and systemic lupus erythematosus which are produced by recombinant technologies. Biotest has more than 2,500 employees worldwide. The preference shares of Biotest AG are listed in the SDAX on the Frankfurt stock exchange.

Additional Information and Where to Find It
This document is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase or sell nor a solicitation of a proxy with respect to any common shares of ADMA or any other securities. A proxy statement on Schedule 14A, including related documents, will be filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) by ADMA. THE PROXY STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14A AND RELATED MATERALS FILED WITH THE SEC WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. SHAREHOLDERS OF ADMA ARE URGED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT SUCH HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING THE TRANSACTION DESCRIBED HEREIN. Investors and security holders may obtain a free copy of these statements (when available) and other documents filed with the SEC at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or by directing such requests to the ADMA representative that will be named in the proxy statement on Schedule 14A.

Participants in the Solicitation
ADMA Biologics, Inc. and its directors and certain executive officers; ADMA BioManufacturing, LLC; Aisling Capital II, LP; Biomark Capital Management Co. LLC; Maggro, LLC; The Genesis Foundation; Hariden, LLC; Biotest AG; Biotest Pharmaceuticals Corporation; and Biotest US Corporation may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the proposed transaction described herein.  Information regarding persons who may be deemed to be participants (including descriptions of their interests, by security holdings or otherwise) is contained in:  ADMA Biologics, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, filed with the SEC on March 23, 2016 (SEC File No. 001-36728); ADMA Biologics, Inc.’s 2016 annual meeting definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A, filed with the SEC on April 29, 2016; and subsequent SEC filings made by such persons, including more complete descriptions that will be available for review in a proxy statement on Schedule 14A which ADMA Biologics, Inc. plans to file with the SEC and provide to its stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate, or imply future results, performance or achievements, and may contain the words “estimate,” “intend,” “target,” “will,” “is likely,” “would,” “may,” or, in each case, their negative, or words or expressions of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning our ability to develop, manufacture, and commercialize specialty plasma-based biologics for the proposed treatment of immune deficiencies and the prevention of certain infectious diseases, the success of our work with our third party vendors and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in furtherance of and progress towards an approval of our Biologics License Application for specialty plasma-based biologics and the ability of such third parties to respond adequately or in a timely manner to the issues raised by the FDA, our ability to successfully pursue commercialization and prelaunch activities, the timeframe within which we may receive approval from the FDA for specialty plasma-based biologics, if at all, the potential of our specialty plasma-based biologics to provide meaningful clinical improvement for patients living with PIDD or other indications and our ability to realize increased prices for plasma growth in the plasma collection industry. These forward-looking statements also involve risks and uncertainties concerning our ability to complete and close the proposed transaction described herein, the expected closing date of such transaction, the anticipated benefits and synergies of such transaction, anticipated future combined businesses, operations, products and services, and liquidity, debt repayment and capital return expectations.  Actual events or results may differ materially from those described in this document due to a number of important factors. These factors include, among others, the outcome of regulatory reviews of the proposed transaction; the ability of the parties to complete the transaction; the ability of ADMA to successfully integrate the therapy business of BPC, operations (including manufacturing and supply operations), sales and distribution channels, business and financial systems and infrastructures, research and development, technologies, products, services and employees; the ability of the parties to retain their customers and suppliers; the ability of the parties to minimize the diversion of their managements’ attention from ongoing business matters; ADMA’s ability to manage the increased scale, complexity and globalization of its business, operations and employee base post-closing; and other risks detailed in ADMA’s filings with the SEC, including those discussed in ADMA’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10­-K and in any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10­-Q and Form 8-K, and any amendments thereto, each of which is on file with the SEC and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. SEC filings for ADMA are also available in the Investor Relations section of ADMA’s website at www.admabiologics.com. Current and prospective security holders are cautioned that there also can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation or warranty by ADMA or any other person that the objectives and plans of ADMA will be achieved in any specified time frame, if at all. Except to the extent required by applicable laws or rules, ADMA does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements or to announce revisions to any of the forward-looking statements.

 

COMPANY CONTACT: Brian Lenz
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer |201-478-5552 | www.admabiologics.com

INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT: Matthew Duffy
Managing Director, LifeSci Advisors, LLC | 212-915-0685 |
Monday, January 23rd, 2017 Uncategorized Comments Off on $ADMA to #Acquire Certain Assets from #Biotest; #Plasma